Robbie Neilson reveals when he decided his Hearts XI to face Dundee in Championship opener

Robbie Neilson knows his Hearts XI to face Dundee. Picture: SNS

The Tynecastle squad has plenty of depth as was displayed during the week against Raith Rovers when eight changes were made from the side which defeated Cowdenbeath a few days previous.

A host of names were missing, including captain Steven Naismith, new signing Andy Halliday and Northern Ireland duo Michael Smith and Liam Boyce.

Peter Haring, Harry Cochrane and Craig Wighton, who netted a hat-trick, all put in good performances to give Neilson a selection headache.

However, he is unlikely to deviate from a plan formulated during pre-season.

"To be honest, we knew the XI about three weeks ago,” Neilson said. “We were using the Betfred games to get to that position and make sure they were in the best condition they can be.

“Liam and Michael arrived back yesterday morning. Liam didn't play at all which is great from our perspective. Michael played about 60 minutes which was great from Northern Ireland.

"We spoke to them and even though it was a big game for them, they said if they could get him off they would.

"We appreciate that because we've got the game tomorrow night so the two of them should be in good condition."

Garuccio admission

Meanwhile, Neilson admitted that his plan all along was to recruit a left-back, knowing Aaron Hickey would likely depart.

Ben Garuccio was allowed to depart on Wednesday by mutual consent to look for first-team football elsewhere.

"I spoke to Ben when I first came in and said my plan was to bring in a left back,” Neilson said. “We knew Hickey was probably going to move and Stephen [Kingsley] was one I wanted to bring in a while ago and we managed to get him in.

"Ben knew that and to his credit, he was a great professional. He trained every day, was ready for the games and just wanted to play football.

"It's best to be honest with the boys and I think he appreciated that. I appreciated the work that he did here as well and we wish him all the best back in Australia.”