Hearts have two Scotland international goalkeepers fighting for a starting spot.
Last season it was Zander Clark winning that particular race with veteran Craig Gordon having to make do with being the Jambos’ cup goalkeepers and getting a few other run outs her and there.
But after missing out on the Euro 2024 Scotland squad and seeing his club teammate going instead, the 41-year-old has won his club spot back and is the number one again.
Clark has played just twice this season, both appearances coming in the Premiership, and the goalkeeping position has been the topic of much discussion from fans this season.
Adding another layer to it is the fact both are out of contract next summer.
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Critchley on Hearts pair Gordon and Clark
It means Hearts and both players have a decision to make.
Gordon is clearly still going strong at the age of 41 but his age can’t be ignored and retirement won’t be far off even if it doesn’t come yet.
Clark is good enough to be a number one somewhere and won’t be happy kicking his heels – so would he sign another contract to keep playing second fiddle?
Should Hearts prioritise his happiness over the older goalkeeper knowing he has longer left in the game?
Manager Neil Critchley has spoken on the situation.
He told the Edinburgh News: “Yes, there’s a situation with Zander and Craigie and that’s something I’ve been speaking to Graeme (Jones, sporting director) about recently.
“So that’s for Graeme, that’s for the club. They know my thoughts.
“Zander is a top professional and a great guy. Even though he’s disappointed not to be playing – because he is a No.1 – I have to say the way he trains and conducts himself around the group every day is outstanding. So that is something for us to discuss for the future.”
Clark willing to fight for Hearts place
Clark is reportedly willing to stay and fight for his place at Hearts.
But Critchley added: “I think you have to take everything into consideration.
“Zander’s feelings – he’s at a stage of his career where he was playing last season. He was out of the team before I got here.
“Craigie’s done brilliantly well since I’ve been here, so I don’t see any reason to change that at the moment.
“It’s difficult when you can only pick one. I think we’ve got two No.1s and Fullers [Ryan Fulton] is a fantastic goalkeeper as well.
“I think we’ve got good competition there. Zander, like all the other players I see, has to be patient and who knows what happens in the future?”
Lawrence Shankland is another out of contract and Hearts have been told they are ‘mental’ not to have an offer on the table for him.