Hearts first-team coach Gordon Forrest has explained how bedding in a new formation has helped the Jambos aim high in the forthcoming Premiership campaign.
The Tynecastle club are back in the top-flight after a season in the Championship and a fresh approach under manager Robbie Neilson has Hearts looking up rather than worrying about a relegation battle.
First-team coach Forrest has played his part in helping reshape how the senior side play in the opening month of the season, with the Gorgie side having already qualified from their Premier Sports Cup group after three wins from three matches.
Ahead of today's clash with Inverness Caley Thistle in the capital, Forrest explained: "Our main priority is to qualify for Europe but these cup games allowed us an earlier look at this different system and different shape.
“We need to win these cup games.
“Other teams might use it as pre-season minutes or to test players, but straight from the off one of our goals is to win all these games. It's maybe a wee bit lighter but we want to come out on top.
“It was interesting watching them [Scottish teams in European competition] and we have eyes on our Premiership opposition. For Hearts, and for us as coaches, we want to do our best this season to get there.
“We have a good group and we've spoken about what we want to achieve. We have players who have been there before and know what's expected at Hearts.”
Forrest also reserved praise for teenage midfielder Finlay Pollock, who continues to show promise as a serious first-team player.
Forrest added: "He was great in pre-season and he's a really good role model for our young academy players. He's been good on the pitch but it's his enthusiasm, his attitude, he's a Hearts supporter and wants to do his best for the club.
“He is a young player and we have to manage his game time. We can't just keep chucking him in because it won't do him any good. It's important we look after him because he is a prospect. He will have ups and downs but he's doing great just now.
“When we first came in there were names chucked at us and he was one to keep an eye on. He is enjoying himself, he's enthusiastic and very fit. He is a key role model because he listens and wants to learn.”
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