Heart of Midlothian defeated Greenock Morton 3-0 in a bounce game this afternoon at the Oriam.
A number of first-team players were able to get minutes ahead of the clash with Celtic this weekend following the 3-0 win over Kilmarnock on Saturday, a result that opened up a five-point gap at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
Craig Gordon started between the sticks, while Christian Borchgrevink got some game time after his injury lay-off. Landry Kabore was in the attack with Jamie McCart and Sabah Kerjota, amongst others, to play.
A few of the younger players also featured, including those who are on cooperation loans to part-time sides.
Michael Stewinwender, Alan Forrest and Sander Kartum scored the goals.
The Austrian defender has been an important squad player so far this campaign, featuring in seven of the eight league games, playing at right-back and centre-back.
McInnes had noted that Steinwender has been doing "terrific" after the win over Killie. He replaced Craig Halkett at the weekend as a precaution due to a minor issue with Halkett's back.
Forrest, who has made 10 appearances, also came off the bench for the final period.
While Ageu didn't feature in the game, Hearts Standard understands he trained today. It is hoped he will be available for selection for the squad on Sunday.
The club's record signing has been out with a hamstring injury since making his debut against Livingston in August.
Speaking ahead of the trip to Rugby Park, McInnes was confident the Brazilian midfielder would be ready for the visit of Celtic. Hearts have the opportunity to open up an eight-point lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
"Ageu and Frankie [Kent] will hopefully be fit for next week. Ageu definitely will be, Frankie's got a chance," he said.
"But, this game, we just feel with the length of time Ageu has been out, the fact that we're going to play on astro – all these things are not really beneficial to a player that's been out for a period of time with the injuries he's got.
"We're just going to try and take the benefit of that and consolidate his work, just bulk his workload up this week. Hopefully get him back full training this week."
