Aaron Hickey played 45 minutes as Hearts went down 0-1 to Sheffield United in their first pre-season friendly.
The teenager, who is the subject of a bid from Serie A cracks Bologna that the Jambos are still discussing with the Italians, started on the left of a back three for Robbie Neilson ’s side against the English Premier League outfit.
The Blades took an early lead at Oriam after Scotland international John Fleck opened the scoring after just seven minutes, which proved to be enough for the win after a dominant second-half display from Chris Wilder’s team.
There was a first run out for Hearts new boy Elliott Frear, who was listed as a trialist as the club await his international clearance being confirmed.
The left winger, who penned a one-year deal with the Gorgie club this week, came on at half-time for his debut in maroon.
Goalkeeper Ross Stewart also made his bow, the on-loan Livingston ‘keeper replacing Bobby Zlamal between the sticks at the break.
Hearts first half : Zlamal, Smith, White, Halkett, Damour, Hickey, Walker, Lee, Moore, Roberts, Boyce.
Hearts second half : Stewart, Wighton, Garuccio, Brandon, Irving, Henderson, Hamilton, Frear, McGill, C. Smith, Denholm.
Sheffield United : Ramsdale, Basham, Egan, J Robinson, Baldock, Stevens, Norwood, Berge, Fleck, Sharp, C Robinson.
