Motherwell travel to Tynecastle on Saturday as league football returns after the international break. Hearts got the win in the League Cup clash at Fir Park last month. Will the result be reversed this weekend?
Hibs were soundly beaten by the Mighty 'Well in the last round of the Premiership and the travelling fans will hope to see the Edinburgh double completed on Saturday. But memories of the Betfred Cup defeat remain; a similar downbeat performance from Stephen Robinson's men will not do.
'Well fans having fun at Tynecastle
Hearts are in the midst of an "injury curse" according to the Daily Record. Up to eight first team players may be unavailable this weekend. Steven Naismith was withdrawn from the Scotland squad with concern about his hamstring and Michael Smith has similar worries. New loan 'keeper Joel Pereira has returned to Manchester United for treatment to his thigh. John Souttar has an ankle problem and he joins another four with long term injuries.
The Gorgie side have scored five goals in their opening four fixtures and they will need close season signing Conor Washington to be at his best if he is to pierce Motherwell's defence. With Jake Carroll now restored to left back following a two match ban, Liam Grimshaw at right back and the centre pairing of Peter Hartley and Declan Gallagher the 'Well look fairly solid.
Of the five on Motherwell's books that were involved in the recent internationals Allan Campbell was the only one to play two full games. He will expect to be fully involved on Saturday.
Stephen Robinson has not yet secured the striker he suggested would complete his summer signings but that has not stopped the goals. Half a dozen in the last two outings have delivered six points and a place in the top half of the table. It will not be a surprise to see two wide men support Chris Long in the centre.
Motherwell have not won at Tynecastle since January 2014 when a John Sutton goal delivered the away win. It’s time for another happy trip back along the M8 with three points after another 1-0 win.