David Templeton reckons Hearts will be right up for their clash with Rangers at Tynecastle this weekend after back-to-back wins before the international break.
Robbie Neilson's men had been on a sticky patch of form but picked up a Europa Conference League win over RFS in Riga before following that up with a big win over Motherwell at Fir Park to go into the international break flying. The domestic action returns this weekend and it is a huge occasion in the capital with the Jambos looking to put more pressure on the Light Blues and go level on points with the Ibrox side.
Former Hearts and Rangers man Templeton knows what it is like to face either side of the Old Firm at Tynecastle and believes that extra buzz will have his former club up for it.
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Craig Halkett is a key player for Hearts and could return this weekend from his latest injury setback and Templeton is in no doubt how important he is to the Gorgie side. He has also outlined the key attributes Robert Snodgrass will bring to the table after his free transfer.
Speaking exclusively to Edinburgh Live Sport ahead of the Tynecastle blockbuster, he said: "I think it was massive for them. They had a few injuries going into that game [Motherwell]. Halkett got injured, Boycey got a bad one and is a big miss. He was playing well. So I think it was a big win. I know what it is like playing there [Tynecastle] against either side of the Old Firm, you get that extra buzz so Hearts will be right up for it. It will be a tough game for Rangers."
He continued: "Halkett is a massive player for them and I think that is probably why when he has had the injuries - I don't know if he came back too soon like the last one - has broken down. I think it is because he is that big a player for them they want him back as soon as possible. I am sure if there is a chance of him playing, they will try to get him in. He is big for them.
"Snodgrass has got plenty of international caps, he has played in the English Premier League and he is a brilliant character as well. He will be good to have around the changing room for his experience and personality. There is nothing better than having someone who gives you that laugh every day and makes you enjoy where you are.
"I think he will be a great signing when he is up to fitness. He is still a good player.
"In terms of Zander, he is a very good goalkeeper. He has proved that over the years but it is just unfortunate that it is obviously Craigy [Craig Gordon] that is there. We have seen for years and years how good he is. He is unbelievable."
A big result against Rangers could set Hearts up for a famous night under the lights as they face off against Serie A outfit Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League next midweek.
The Jambos currently occupy second spot in the section behind Istanbul Basaksehir and can take real control of their group destiny if they can pick up three points in the capital.
Templeton knows the Italians will provide a tough test but stressed the importance of picking up points at home if you are going to reach the next stage.
He said: "Istanbul are a very good side. I would imagine Fiorentina will be very good as well. It will be a tough game but if you want to qualify you need to try and get points at home. You don't want to rely on going to Florence or Istanbul to try and get points.
"If you can get something at home albeit against a very good side, but Hearts are good at Tynecastle. Fans make it difficult for away teams with that pitch bang right on top of them
"To be honest, I am sure Robbie - that last game was unfortunate Istanbul were very good and managed to pick them off- will have the boys right up for that game and if they get a good result against Rangers that is going to boost them going into it."
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