Robbie Neilson admits the main driver behind Hearts creating history and reaching the Europa League group stages is their loyal fans.
The Jambos face a massive night under the lights at a sold out Tynecastle this evening as they bid to secure a spot in the tournament proper of the second tier competition. Lawrence Shankland was on target from the spot last week as the Gorgie side lost out 2-1 to Swiss champions FC Zurich. That result has left the tie finely poised ahead of tonight's return, with boss Neilson saying the Hearts fans deserve the big European nights more than any others in the world because of what they have went through in recent times.
Regardless of the outcome this evening, the capital club are guaranteed group stage football with the Europa Conference League already in the bag, but all focus will be on reaching the Europa League. Speaking about the fans, Neilson said: "It’s probably the biggest driver for us all at the club, from the playing staff, coaching staff, out of any fans in the world they probably deserve it more than any because they put their hands in their pocket and saved the club, administration, demotion, coming back up again, top six, European football and last week was brilliant just to see the fans over in Switzerland.
