ROBBIE NEILSON has confirmed that Hearts will be without four key players for tonight's clash against Fiorentina through injury.
Craig Halkett did not travel with the Jambos first team squad, while Michael Smith, Josh Ginnelly and Gary Mackay-Steven all have knocks.
The Edinburgh giants go into the match desperate to pick up a positive result to keep their Conference League journey alive.
Last week's trouncing at Tynecastle against the same opposition won't have done the confidence levels any good.
However, the Serie A side were handed a thumping themselves in league action against Lazio on Monday - which gives Hearts hope that a triumph in Florence could be possible.
Neilson told the media: “I watched the game on Monday and it was a disappointing scoreline for them.
“They actually played very well and got hit on counter-attack four times. I'd expect them to bounce back. It's no difference for us whether they won or lost.
“We would like not to concede after four minutes like last week. We want to stay in the game and create some chances – get a foothold in the game and put a bit of pressure on Fiorentina.
“It's the same at any big club. You lose a couple of games and there is going to be pressure from fans. We have had it at our place. It's part of football.”
He continued: "Obviously it would be huge (if Hearts won).
"To come to a place like this and get something would be outstanding for us. I know the fans are coming in numbers and it would be a great night for them. We know it will be tough but we are confident we can take something.
“Generally we sell out at Tynecastle and we are used to that atmosphere. Tomorrow will be a different atmosphere, a different type of stadium, a lot bigger and a lot more open. We will have 4,000 Hearts fans coming so I'm sure they will make a lot of noise. We are really excited about playing in the stadium.
“We want to get to that stage and be a big club participating regularly in Europe. It's a learning curve for everyone – players, staff, fans – but we want to continue doing it. It's an honour to represent Scotland in Europe.
“It's extra workload and extra pressure but iwe enjoy it. Fiorentina and Basaksehir are top teams. Zurich are Swiss champions. You want to be playing at the highest level."
