HEARTS are continuing to monitor Charlton striker Izale Mcleod ahead of the transfer window opening next month.

The Edinburgh club came close to signing McLeod on loan during the summer, although the deal failed to happen and the player remained at The Valley.

He subsequently went on to force his way into Phil Parkinson’s first team plans, but a three-game suspension picked up following an elbowing incident in the FA Cup defeat at Northwich has seen him move back to the fringes of the Addicks squad.

Parkinson today confirmed McLeod could be about to move on in January and added Tynecastle was a possible destination.

The Valley chief said: “Izale has had a long time now where he hasn’t played regularly.

“He got back in the team and then got suspended for three games, which gave Dave Mooney the opportunity to come in and play with Deon Burton.

“Dave has staked a claim for the position and that is what happens in football.

“We constantly say to players to be on top of their game in training and when you get the opportunity, be ready to take it.

“Dave Mooney has done that, so Izale has got to be patient and wait for his opportunity.”

Parkinson added: “If in January we feel we’ve got enough strikers where we can afford to let Izale go out and play, bearing in mind Chris Dickson is back next week, we may well consider that.

“There is still an interest from Hearts.

“I’m not sure how strong that is but there is an interest and that could move forward, but we will just have to wait and see.”