Hearts get their season underway against Dundee Utd at Tynecastle tonight in the opening Group A fixture of the Betfred Cup.
The games may be an extension of pre-season, but there's points riding on them now and Craig Levein will be hoping for an easier time of it than last year.
The Jambos topped their group, but were made to work for it after fielding Andy Irving when ineligible against Cove Rangers meant a two point deduction.
Dundee United should provide a good test tonight though. Robbie Neilson returns to Tynecastle for the first time since leaving Hearts three years ago, and the Tannadice club will be amongst the favourites to win the Championship this season.
New striker Lawrence Shankland was linked with Hearts over the summer, but could be the man that gets the goals to fire Utd to automatic promotion.
Ex-Hearts midfielder Adam King could make his debut, while Liam Smith could also play on his return to his formative club.
For Hearts, Levein is likely to go with his fittest team rather than his strongest. He hinted that Conor Washington is likely to start, while compatriot Michael Smith needs game time after missing the pre-season trip to Ireland.
Jamie Walker's thigh injury has been assessed and Levein is hopeful he can be involved at some stage.
With John Souttar given extra days off after being away on international duty, Craig Halkett could be the favourite to partner Christophe Berra in the heart of the defence.
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