Hearts boss Jim Jefferies is delighted with Aussie kid Dylan McGowan's show of commitment to the Jambos.

The highly-rated youngster should have been in South America this week as part of the Australia U20s' training camp, the get-together viewed as a key part of his country's preparations for October's Asian Football Confederation U20 World Cup qualifying tournament.

But he's chosen to stay at Tynecastle, with injury problems opening the door to a potential SPL debut for the 18 year-old.

"I had a chat with Dylan and I have to say I was pleased he decided to stay here," Jefferies told the Hearts website.

"I know he wanted to go to South America with his national team but with our situation here I asked him if he would consider staying with us to train just in case he was required.

"I have told him he will have other opportunities. He was happy to do that, which was a pleasing attitude."