Just 77 days on from their entertaining 3-3 draw at Tynecastle last season, Hearts and Rangers will face off once again this weekend as duo kick of the new Scottish Premiership campaign in Edinburgh.
With a potential 11 new signings on show between the teams, the game in Gorgie is sure to be an intriguing one as two of last year’s top three look to begin their season with a vital three points.
Hearts boss Steven Naismith knows he will be without both Beni Baningime and Calem Nieuwenhof tomorrow, while experienced defender Stephen Kingsley is a doubt for the game. For Rangers boss Philippe Clement, only Dujon Sterling will be missing. However, the Belgian does have several selection dilemmas, both in defence and upfront.
So how will both sides line up at Tynecastle tomorrow? The Scotsman predicts Hearts’ and Rangers’ starting XI, with a number of new signings set for debuts in the capital.
9. RWB: Gerald Taylor (Hearts)
The Costa Rican full-back has been impressive in pre-season and has cemented a position for the Scottish Premiership opener. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
10. LB: Ridvan Yilmaz (Rangers)
He fought off competition from Borna Barisic for a starting spot last year and must do the same again with new signing Jefte this year. However, we think due to his experience in the Scottish top tier, he gets the nod for tomorrow's tough game. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
11. CM: Blair Spittal (Hearts)
Another new signing that is expected to start tomorrow's big game is ex-Motherwell man Spittal. | SNS Group Photo: SNS Group
12. CM: Mohamed Diomande (Rangers)
The Ivorian has been extremely impressive since his move to Ibrox in January. Clement knows how pivotal he can be if Rangers are to wrestle the title from Celtic this year. He starts every game when fit. | SNS Group