Hearts manager Wouter Vrancken has expressed cautious optimism regarding the availability of Stuart Findlay and Eduardo Ageu for the club’s upcoming Champions League qualifier against Sturm Graz on July 21. Both players recently returned to training after injuries, with Findlay recovering from an ankle problem and Ageu managing a thigh issue.

Vrancken indicated that while progress is being made, the pair have not yet fully rejoined group training sessions. "I hope so," Vrancken said when asked if both could feature in the upcoming European fixture, adding that their participation depends on their ongoing recovery. "Eduardo is going well and we’ll see. I hope at the end of the month. Same with Stuart… they’re doing well on the pitch, so it’s going good."

Despite the hopeful outlook, the manager emphasized the importance of caution given the length of the season ahead. "We don’t want to take risks with them because it’s a long season," Vrancken noted. At present, neither player is participating in full team sessions, which could impact their readiness for the crucial Champions League qualifier.

Findlay, an influential centre-back, and Ageu, the club’s record signing and Brazilian midfielder, are seen as key to strengthening Hearts’ squad as they seek to make an impact in European competition. The qualifier against Austrian side Sturm Graz presents an early challenge for Tynecastle’s new head coach, who is balancing the need to field a strong team with managing player fitness.

As the July 21 match approaches, Hearts will monitor the fitness levels of Findlay and Ageu closely, with their involvement likely to hinge on how quickly they adapt to full training without aggravating their injuries.