Their summer recruitment has been lauded - and a fully revamped XI shows just how strong the current Hearts crop really are.
Investor Tony Bloom’s Jamestown Analytics has helped bring several new faces to Gorgie, with instant impacts made by the likes of Claudio Braga and Alexandros Kyziridis. McInnes opted for the same starting XI across six consecutive league games before making changes, but that doesn’t mean he’s reliant on a specific batch of stars.
Top of the Premiership table Hearts have options aplenty in all areas of the park, and a fully changed XI from the team that drew with Dundee United displays that fully. Not including any of those players or players with medium to long term injuries, here’s what a fully switched Hearts team could look like, and what it tells us about the side.
5. LB - Stephen Kingsley
Has fought his way back into contention this term but faces a fight with Harry Milne for regular left-back role. | SNS Group
6. RM - Sabah Kerjota
Summer arrival from Italian lower leagues is eager for a chance on the flanks. | SNS Group
7. CM - Ageu
The club's record signing is someone Hearts have high hopes for and as fitness grows, involvement likely will too. | SNS
8. CM - Blair Spittal
Experienced technician more than capable in midfield, with Sander Kartum still in reserve amid fitness concerns around Beni Baningime and Finlay Pollock. | SNS Group