Managerless Hearts start their Conference League campaign with a trip to Azerbaijan to face Belarussian side Dinamo Minsk this evening looking to halt their alarming winless run.
Forced to play the game behind closed doors and on neutral ground due to UEFA sanctions on Belarussian clubs, the Tynecastle outfit’s Conference League opener will take place over 1600 miles from Minsk in the Azerbaijan city of Sumgait.
Still looking for their first win of the season, a 96th minute header from Lawrence Shankland helped the Jambos halt a run of eight consecutive defeats. However, a win is desperately needed for the Edinburgh giants - and tonight would be the perfect time to secure it.
Here is The Scotsman’s predicted Hearts line-up to face Dinamo Minsk this evening:
9. CAM: Yan Dhanda
He has had to be content with a place on the bench in recent weeks, but will be handed the playmaker role in place of Jorge Grant against Dinamo Minsk tonight. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
10. LW: Alan Forrest
The pacey winger will be handed another opportunity to impress on the left hand side. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
11. CF: Lawrence Shankland
His 96th minute header against Ross County got him off the mark for the season at the weekend. Can he add to his tally in Azerbaijan? | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group