Dundee United player-manager Craig Brewster will cast an envious eye towards Hearts at Tannadice – but is convinced his team can shock the SPL high-flyers.
The Jambos brought in 11 new players during the transfer window and comfortably defeated Aberdeen in the Tennent’s Scottish Cup without the services of players such as Paul Hartley, Rudi Skacel and Takis Fyssas.
But, with United enjoying a renaissance following Brewster’s arrival last month, the 39-year-old has warned Graham Rix’s team his own side have already proved their ability with the 3-3 draw at Celtic.
Vital Quotes:
Brewster said: ‘I’m told Hearts have 35 recognised first-team players – we have a total of 37 players at the entire club and most of them are kids. They will probably need to build a new dressing room at Tynecastle to cope with all the new arrivals.
‘There is a big difference in the two squads, but you can only ever play with 11 players at any one time. If our boys believe in themselves, they are definitely capable of winning. Who would have given them any chance to come back from 3-1 down against Celtic at Parkhead? Not many. But they had faith in their own ability, worked hard and got their reward.’
Dundee United Team News:
Striker Jim McIntyre is rated doubtful for the Bank of Scotland Premier League visit of Hearts.
Paul Ritchie and Lee Mair are still injured, but fellow defender Charlie Mulgrew is eligible again.
Player to watch: Lee Miller
Has looked more dangerous of late, and will surely want to prove himself against his former club.
Hearts Team News:
Hearts’ Mirsad Beslija is available despite being stretchered off on Saturday with a suspected knee injury.
But Paul Hartley is back from his ban, fellow midfielder Rudi Skacel and Takis Fyssas are free of flu, but fellow defender Jose Gonsalves is doubtful.
Jose Goncalves is rated doubtful with a groin injury.
Player to watch: Rudi Skacel
Clearly the class act at Hearts. He will continue to deliver the goods until his loan ends a the end of the season.
Match Facts & Stats
Match Prediction:
Dundee United 1 – 2 Hearts
Next Fixtures:
Motherwell v Dundee United
C’mon, do us a favour Utd.