KRIS BOYD has dismissed talk that Hearts could challenge Celtic and Rangers for the Premiership title this season.
Tynecastle sporting director Joe Savage insisted before the start of the season that Robbie Neilson's side are more than capable of toppling Glasgow's big two.
Boyd though feels there is no chance for Hearts, especially with European football to contend with.
Speaking on Sky Sports he said: "No, there's absolutely no chance of that. I think the gulf is as big as it has been. Hearts have to deal with European football now which is the benefit of their success last season, but this season it could be a hindrance having to play Thursday-Sunday. For them, it's going to be difficult.
"Hibs have spent a lot of money, but whether they've strengthened or not remains to be seen. That will be judged in the remaining few weeks. I think the team to watch at this moment in time outwith Rangers and Celtic are Aberdeen, there's no doubt about it.
"Jim Goodwin and has staff have done an unbelievable job so far. They lost the opening day against Celtic but there was plenty of positives to take from that, and then they go and thrash St Mirren 4-1 at the weekend. There's an attractive style there.
"[Bojan] Miovski, the striker, seems to be causing problems. He can finish. I think Aberdeen could be the ones to challenge Hearts for third place but I don't think anybody will challenge Celtic or Rangers at the top."
