There was a change in shape for Hearts against Dundee last weekend and it got the required result.
Robbie Neilson ’s side won 2-1 to open up a 15 point lead at the top of the Championship, although that’s been cut to 14 ahead of tomorrow’s meeting with Ayr United.
Armand Gnanduillet and Liam Boyce were paired together up front and the Frenchman ended up hitting the winner after his strike partner had rattled an effort off the bar.
The midfield diamond behind them was effective after an initial settling in period, although Gary Mackay-Steven will need to sharpen up his finishing if he gets the nod at the tip of it once again.
Jamie Walker, who was unfortunate to find himself on the bench last week, might be the more natural fir in that position.
Skipper Steven Naismith won’t make it after suffering an injury and will be left out with upcoming games against Arbroath and a Scottish Cup tie at Brora Rangers in mind.
Aside from that, everyone else is fit and available to play.
David Hopkin will take his place in the Ayr dugout for the first time after being confirmed as Mark Kerr’s replacement this week.
He faced Hearts as Morton gaffer back at the start of December when Walker’s double gave Hearts all three points, and he'll be hoping his new team is tighter at the back after they went down 5-3 at Tynecastle the last time they were in the capital.
Predicted Hearts team: Gordon, Smith, Halkett, Popescu, Kingsley, Irving, McEneff, Halliday, Walker, Boyce, Gnanduillet.
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