By Mark Heys
October 17 2005

Fredi Bobic could be about to make a permanent return to the UK after Scottish Premier League leaders Heart of Midlothian offered the German star a trial at Tynecastle. The 34-year old veteran is without a club having left Hertha Berlin at the end of last season and Jambos manager George Burley knows all too well about the capabilities of Bobic after the Slovenian-born attacker scored a hat trick to relegate his Ipswich Town team whilst on loan to Bolton at the tail end of the 2001-2002 season.

Bobic is a former German international who has a good scoring record in the Bundesliga for the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Stuttgart and Hannover 96. He made 16 appearances and scored four goals during his time with Bolton and helped them stave off relegation from the Premiership.

If signed Bobic will join another ex-Wanderer in the Jambos ranks as goalkeeper Steve Banks is currently with the Edinburgh club as cover for Scottish international Craig Gordon.

Speaking of his trial, Bobic confirmed he also had other offers in the pipeline:

"George Burley asked me to train with Hearts and, over the next few days, they will see what I have to offer, I have kept myself fit and I'm in good shape and still have goals in me."

"I'm 34 but I have two or three years left in me and I think my style would suit the Scottish game. Hearts are one of my main options and, although I have opportunities to play in the Far East and Qatar, I'd rather stay in Europe.

"I think I can make a good impression in training and then it will be up to Hearts.
In Germany, people have noticed what has happened with Hearts this season and it will be good to meet George Burley and see what his plans are."