Hearts welcome fierce rivals Hibs to Tynecastle tonight for the third Edinburgh derby of the Scottish Premiership season - and few of these clashes have been as important as this evening’s.
Three points clear at the top of the table, Derek McInnes’ side is reaching crunch time in their quest to win their first league title since 1960. Beaten for only the third time this season against St Mirren last week, the Jambos know they can’t afford too many slip-ups with Rangers and Celtic breathing down their necks.
However, their Edinburgh neighbours would love to knock them off their perch, damage their title credentials and record a second successive win against them following their 3-2 triumph at Easter Road back in late December.
Comfortably in the top half of the table, David Gray’s Hibs side trail fourth-placed Motherwell by just four points heading into the game, and will want to add pressure to those above as they seek a second successive top-three finish.
With both Edinburgh sides looking stronger than they have done in many seasons, we pondered which players would make a combined Hearts and Hibs starting XI, based on the 2025/26 campaign so far.
Using the popular football statistics website FotMob, this is who would make a combined Hearts-Hibs starting XI this season in a 4-3-3 formation.
5. LB: Harry Milne - Hearts
The former Partick Thistle man is having an excellent season at Tynecastle, and is the league's highest rated full-back in the league with a rating of 7.62. Has recorded five assists and one goal this season, and has created a total of 35 chances for his team this season. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
6. CM: Cammy Devlin - Hearts
One of the main candidates for the Scottish Premiership player of the year award, the Aussie midfielder is the league's highest rated player, scoring an average of 7.77 for his performances this season. Has won 56.4% of his duels this seaosn, and makes more defensive contributions than 99% of other midfielders in the division. First name on the team sheet when fit. | SNS Group
7. CM: Josh Mulligan - Hibs
Rated at 7.22 for his performances, the summer signing from Dundee has been one of the league's most impressive performers this season, with his strong displays at Easter Road seeing him linked with moves to the English Premier League in January. Capable in a number of positions, Mulligan has been a creative spark for David Gray's side, registering five assists and creating a total of 23 chances for his teammates. | SNS Group
8. CM: Oisin McEntee - Hearts
Another key summer signing by Derek McInnes, the versatile midfielder has flourished in a variety of positions this season. Has registered three assists this term, and scored the crucial second goal in a 2-1 win over Celtic at Parkhead. He has an average rating of 7.15 this season, and takes the final spot in midfield. | SNS Group