Beattie linked with Hearts move

Last updated : 21 July 2009 By Wba-mad Editor

Craig Beattie could be heading back north of the border after Hearts expressed their interest in signing the Scotland international.  The £1.25 million signing from Celtic has experienced mixed fortunes after his move from the Scottish giants back in 2007 and could be the first exit under Roberto Di Matteo. 

After opening his Albion account is spectacular fashion against Bournemouth during a League Cup tie, the striker failed to hold down a regular starting berth at The Hawthorns making only 21 appearances – 15 of those from the bench. 

As a result Beattie was loaned to Preston but injury blighted his time at Deepdale making only two appearances before returning for treatment.  The following season, after Albion were promoted, the 25-year-old was again deemed surplus to requirements and joined Crystal Palace and Sheffield United on loan. 

In between spells with the Eagles and the Blades, ‘Beatts’ returned to Albion to make his Premier League debut at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea.  The following game, at home to Tottenham Hotspur, he opened his Premier League account after coming as a substitute.