Gary Locke says an influx of regular European cash can help his beloved Hearts side close in on competing with Celtic and Rangers.
The Jambos will celebrate their club ambassador's service to the cause across a variety of roles this Saturday in a testimonial match versus English Championship side Stoke City. It will also double up as manager Robbie Neilson's final friendly match ahead of Premiership business resuming versus Ross County at Tynecastle in just over a week's time.
It's set to be a captivating campaign in Gorgie after last year's third-placed finish and Scottish Cup final spot booked guaranteed European football until Christmas, either in the Europa League or Europa Conference League. Participation in the latter's group stage netted clubs last season a minimum of £2.5 million in prize money with every win worth a six-figure sum. That pot of cash goes up in the tier above and Locke sense a great chance for the Jambos.
