Hearts signed Elton Kabangu on the first day of the January transfer window but he still hasn’t made his debut.
The Jambos have played two games – beating Motherwell and Dundee United – since then but Kabangu has been unavailable for them all.
That’s because the 26-year-old has been awaiting a work permit from the Home Office after making the switch from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise.
Manager Neil Critchley delivered an update on Kabangu after the United game and aimed a dig at the Home Office over the delay.
But he did insist he was hopeful of having the pacey frontman available to face Aberdeen at the weekend.
Hearts land Kabangu work permit
And Critchley gets his wish with Hearts securing a work permit for Kabangu, according to Hearts Standard.
The Jambos had hoped to get that over the line in time to face Motherwell on January 2 but there was a delay and the permit still wasn’t done in time for Sunday’s trip to Tannadice.
Hearts have had 17-year-old striker James Wilson spearheading their attack and the talented teen took his tally to the season to five with a double against Ross County.
Team captain Lawrence Shankland is currently out injured and has been replaced for recent games by Liam Boyce, who has performed well in being a foil for Wilson.
Hearts have been desperate to add pace to their attack though and that was the reason behind the swoop for Kabangu.
His absence didn’t turn out to be a massive issue in those two matches but his addition to the ranks for the Dons game will be welcomed.
What Neil Critchley said about Kabangu delay
Asked if he would have Kabangu at Aberdeen, Critchley had said: “I would very much hope so. I hope the Home Office has enjoyed their Christmas and they decide to have a look at that in the next 24-48 hours.
“I fully expect Elton to be available and ready for Aberdeen and I think he will provide something different at the top end of the pitch.”