McInnes: Hearts ready for toughest test as leaders face Celtic - live on Sky!

Hearts' unbeaten start and Tynecastle form make them a viable home-back for punters against Celtic; expect a tight, low-scoring game — consider Hearts draw/no bet or under 2.5 goals. A Hearts win would extend their lead to eight points and strengthen their unexpected title credentials.

McInnes: Hearts ready for "toughest" test as Celtic visit Tynecastle

Hearts head coach Derek McInnes insists his side are prepared for their biggest challenge of the season as league leaders host champions Celtic on Sunday. Hearts remain unbeaten in the Scottish Premiership and sit five points clear after eight games, with a win against Celtic set to push their advantage to eight points.

Early-season surge after summer overhaul

McInnes has overseen a dramatic turnaround from last season’s bottom-six finish. Owner investment and a summer recruitment drive — 11 new signings — have helped reshape the squad. Key additions such as Claudio Braga, Alex Kyziridis and Stuart Findlay have contributed decisively, combining for 10 goals and five assists in the league so far.

Data-driven backing and financial boost

Investment of around £10m for a near-29% stake and a partnership with Jamestown Analytics mirror approaches used at Brighton and Union Saint-Gilloise. The off-field strategy aims to underpin on-field progress, but McInnes is clear that results still come down to player performance.

Defensive improvements underpinning form

After conceding six goals in their first four league matches, Hearts have tightened up — winning their last four fixtures while keeping clean sheets in each. McInnes highlighted the confidence this defensive run gives his team as they prepare for a packed Tynecastle.

McInnes on expectations and focus

McInnes struck a cautious tone: while happy for supporters to dream of ending the Old Firm dominance, he reminded everyone the season is young and the real task is consistency. He emphasised the squad’s focus on minimizing defeats and maximizing wins, calling the challenge “a test for ourselves.”

Celtic situation and the match outlook

Brendan Rodgers’ Celtic have stuttered with dropped points against Dundee, Hibs and Rangers, and face Europa League action midweek against Sturm Graz before travelling to Edinburgh. McInnes expects a tough, high-quality opponent and anticipates a tight encounter at Tynecastle.

What to expect on the night

Given Celtic’s pedigree and Hearts’ home momentum, the game promises to be closely contested. McInnes expects Celtic to respond and believes Tynecastle will provide a formidable atmosphere. For punters and neutrals, the likely scenario is a tight, low-scoring battle that tests Hearts’ growing title credentials.

Derek McInnes insists his Hearts side are ready for their "toughest" challenge of the season as his league leaders face champions Celtic on Sunday, live on Sky Sports.

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