This game is big for Hearts for two reasons. Firstly, and most importantly, they could really use three points from a game they aren’t fancied to get any as they seek to track down Aberdeen in the race for third place. Secondly, Celtic could win the title with a victory in Gorgie. You don’t want any opponent to be celebrating their league crown on your own patch, especially not a rival.
There are no fresh injury concerns with the hosts ahead of the game. Michael Smith is still out, while Beni Baningime and Liam Boyce are not expected back until the last couple of games, if at all this season. Craig Gordon, Craig Halkett and Gary Mackay-Steven are long-term absentees.
This is the team we believe interim boss Steven Naismith will go with...
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1. GK - Zander Clark
Has been in good form since replacing the injured Craig Gordon. Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group
2. DR - James Hill
We reckon there will be a change at right-back. Given the strength of the Celtic attack, it might be better to have a more defensive player at full-back than Nathaniel Atkinson. Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group
3. DL - Alex Cochrane
The full-back was excellent against Ross County. Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group
4. DRC - Toby Sibbick
Will have a tough task keeping tabs on Kyogo. Photo: Ewan Bootman - SNS Group