Hearts will welcome back Craig Levein to Tynecastle this weekend as the newly appointed St Johnstone manager heads back to his old club. The 59-year-old was both a player and manager with the Jambos, last working for them in 2019 and will now prepare for his first fixture against them since 2009.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Levein - who played over 400 matches for the Jambos - said he hoped to receive boos from around the Tynecastle stadium, highlighting the Gorgie stands superior atmosphere. The McDiarmid Park boss said: "I don't know if I'll get bored - I would imagine I will. I would hope so anyway, I love it there. The atmosphere at Tynecastle is incredible."
Whether he is booed or not, Steven Naismith will still be forced to play the Saints without several key figures. Craig Gordon and Craig Halkett both featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly but the Gorgie boss has made it clear he is in no hurry to rush them onto the pitch.
5. Barrie McKay - Hearts
OUT - McKay continues recovery on his knee and will hope to return before the year is out. | SNS Group
6. Odel Offiah - Hearts
OUT - the Brighton loanee suffered another health scare and has returned to his parent club for the foreseeable | SNS Group
7. Drey Wright - St Johnstone
OUT - The English 28-year-old injured his knee during the Saints' draw against Aberdeen last month and continues to recover. | SNS Group
8. Ross Sinclair - St Johnstone
OUT - The goalkeeper broke his arm back in August and continues rehabilitation. | SNS Group