Obviously we should put thoughts of Europe's major competition behind us but regardless this is a massive clash in the race for the Europa League. Should we defeat Hearts we will move nine points clear of them but a defeat would bring the Jambos back to within touching distance.
The visitors triumphed in a gruelling cup encounter on Tuesday but with three full days to recover it is unlikely to have had much of an effect on them. Ian Black can come in again after suspension but a change will be enforced in defence as Hamill is now banned. Kello is still exiled while Kyle is a long-term injury. Suso, Driver, Elliott and Skacel are all more than capable of causing us problems though.
August 2011
Our team news seems to be fairly low key once more. A couple of squad players are recovering but the current first team seem fully fit. Craigan was free from suspension last week but spent 90 minutes on the bench, while both Humphrey and Daley are as close to serious competition for starting places as we have. However, this trio will look at the published team-sheet more in hope than expectation on Saturday.
At Tynecastle on Christmas Eve we were well beaten in a dismal display. Missing Jennings that day was a huge blow for us though and his presence alongside Lasley on this occasion will make us much more competitive. Ojamaa had a quieter game at Paisley but was still involved in our best moments and we will look to him to create once more. He does need others to step up though and this means Law and Murphy will have to raise their performances.
Hearts are a good side who will be boosted by their mid-week win. We will be a much tougher proposition for them than at Christmas though and at our best we may be able to claim a 2-1 victory.
Remember when Hearts visited in August?