Hearts star Peter Haring insists his side can challenge at the op of the Premiership next season - and urged Steven Naismith to be a part of it.
The Austrian has come into the side towards the end of the season after a horror couple of campaigns with injury and played a big part in the improved performances at the end of the season.
And he reckons Hearts have the squad to challenge for European football next season with a top four finish their ultimate aim when they make the step up.
Haring reckons Robbie Neilson's side will set a target of top four when they return for pre-season and expects new signings to increase the levels of the squad.
He said: “We’ve definitely got good players in our squad. We will have a few players leaving and a few coming in, which is normal.
“We will have to bring them into the team and I am positive we will be able to challenge for the top spots.
“Everyone expects us to push for top six or even top four and that’s definitely our target. We’ve got a few weeks off and everyone needs to look after themselves then make sure we come back ready to go and hit the ground running next season.
“We know what to expect and I hope we get fans in next season. It’s so much more enjoyable, especially being back in the Premiership.”
One player who has hinted he might not be around is Steven Naismith, who suggested he could retire in the summer.
But after Andy Halliday called for him to stick around for at least another year, Haring has also made a plea to the former Rangers star.
He added: “I hope he doesn’t leave. I’ve not spoken to him, I have just read it. He’s a great guy to have around. He’s an experienced player. He’s gone through everything you can imagine in football and has played at a high level in Scotland and England.
“Personally I enjoy working with him because he is always there with every team-mate to give advice.
“Also, on the pitch, he can change games even if he does not start them.
“I’m positive we will see Naisy again next season.”
