Robbie Neilson says Christophe Berra has been given a "clean slate" to show what he can do at Hearts after a difficult season last year.
The Jambos boss says the experienced defender is back in training following an Achilles injury, and he'll be in the squad for tonight's match against East Fife.
Neilson says the fact Berra is left-sided gives the defence extra balance, especially with Mihai Popescu and Craig Halkett both right-sided.
The Hearts manager said: "He has been great since he came back. Obviously he came back in pre-season and had a problem with his Achilles, he has only been back in training the last two or three weeks. But he is looking good, he has great experience and is a good guy to have about.
"I have worked with him for a number of years so I know the quality he brings. He will be available, he is part of the squad."
Neilson added: "He has got great experience, he has played at a good level in England in the Championship, he is a good player.
"I know he had a difficult season last year but I spoke to him when he came in and I said it is a clean slate from my perspective, go and show us what you can do."
Many supporters would expect Halkett and Popescu to be the first-choice central defenders in John Souttar's absence, but the fact that Berra is left-sided means he may be selected more than people think.
Neilson said: "Christophe being left-sided as well gives us a little bit of balance. Popescu and Halkett are both right-sided and it’s good sometimes to have a left-sided one in there.
“So, at this moment in time it’s about getting Christophe fit and keeping him fit, and then making sure he gets himself up to speed."
