Hearts manager Craig Levein says age plays no part in his selection policy and he will continue to give young players the opportunity to don the maroon jersey this campaign.

No other Scottish Premiership side has fielded more young players than the Gorgie outfit this season.

Levein has placed his faith in four teenagers in Hearts' last three games - 19-year-old duo Rory Currie and Jamie Brandon, 17-year-old Euan Henderson and 16-year-old Harry Cochrane, who has started the last two matches.

When asked if he had any qualms in introducing the young quartet, Levein said he sticks to the adage that if you are good enough, you are old enough.

"I don't see it as a thing," said the Tynecastle boss.

"They are on the bench because they have done well. If it's a young guy, so what?

"I believe that you can be good enough, no matter your age."

He added: "Harry Cochrane in three years' time is going to be a top, top player so the more experience he can get between now and then, the better.

"I am sure he will be a regular starter for Hearts and has the capabilities to play international football.

"I believe in him and the other young players, they've not let me down."

Levein said work in rebuilding the club's academy after administration is beginning to bear fruit.

He said: "We have had a lot of holes to fill in the academy and spent a lot of money but we are starting to see some players coming out.

"Last year we took two players from the academy, this year we took eight and next we will take seven or eight as they are good players.

"I have a great deal of faith in them, I've watched them for three years and know their capabilities."

Meanwhile, Levein has heaped praise on the performances in both training and matches by Rangers target Jamie Walker.

The former Scotland coach said the winger's fitness is better than it has ever been since returning to the fold after the transfer window.

"It's been difficult for Jamie with all the things going on around him and I understand and appreciate that," Levein said.

"But once the window closed there was a change to his mindset and that has helped him.

"He's done everything I've asked of him. His numbers that we get from the GPS stuff are excellent - as good as they've ever been. I just want him to keep that going."