Robbie Neilson fancies Hearts' chances after being drawn against either Linfield or Zurich in the Europa League playoff round.
The Jambos were in the hat for this afternoon's draw and now know who stands between them and a place in the group stage. Defeat will still see them drop into the group stage of the Europa Conference League, guaranteeing European football until at least November, but that will be a consolation prize compared to the benefits that will come from beating either.
The Tynecastle team face a wait to find out which of their opponents will be heading to Gorgie. The third qualifying round first legs take place this Thursday, with the return fixtures scheduled for Thursday, August 9 and 11. Once those are out of the way, Neilson's side can start preparing for their massive nights on Thursday, August 18 and 25 respectively. After being drawn second, Hearts will travel to either Belfast or Zurich before welcoming their opponents to Tynecastle. They face champions Celtic at Parkhead in between both legs.
