The weekend win at Aberdeen saw goal hero Francisco Sandaza and some resolute defending grab the headlines.

However, on the day when Irishman Daly picked up an award for his hat-trick in the Co-Operative Cup second round win at Cowdenbeath, his manager was quick with his praise.

“Jon has had a hard time with injury, but he has always worked hard and, as we saw on Saturday, he is an important member of the squad,” said Craig.

“He is big, strong and provides and aerial threat that gives defences problems and is also useful when we are defending set-pieces.

“On top of that, though, he puts in a lot of work in open play and, on Saturday, he held the ball up and linked very well. His partnership with Sandaza is still in its early stages so I’m not getting carried away, but it has been encouraging so far.”

It should also get a chance to blossom further when Airdrie United visit in the Co-Operative Cup third round tomorrow night, although Daly’s wife went into labour today and that will have to cast some doubt over his participation.

That tie will come too soon for injured strikers Roy O’Donovan and Warren Feeney, while midfielder Willo Flood will also miss out again.

And defender Mihael Kovacevic is a big doubt after taking a whack in the face against the Dons.

“O’Donovan and Flood are very close and will be OK for Hearts on Saturday, but Feeney will need another week before his ankle is right,” added Craig.

“Kovacevic is my major concern for tomorrow. He has a swollen jaw and has not been able to head the ball in training, so it could be a struggle for him to be ready.”