Souttar tells new boys: Celts game will shock you

HEARTS defender John Souttar is adamant that a potent mix of one Scottish football’s most volatile fixtures staged in what is regarded as the country’s most atmospheric stadium will shock the team’s newcomers today.

Among manager Craig Levein’s 13 summer signings, the likes of Zdenek Zlamal, Ben Garuccio, Olly Lee, Uche Ikpeazu, Peter Haring and Steven MacLean are set to get their first taste of a clash against Celtic at Tynecastle.

Traditionally a grudge match, the pitch row between Levein and Bhoys counterpart Brendan Rodgers at the end of last season will only add to the tension.

“I think they will be in a for a wee shock at the weekend,” said Souttar, who missed last December’s 4- 0 thrashing of Celtic at Tynecastle in a game that ended the Hoops’ record- breaking

69- game unbeaten domestic run.

“Once the game starts it can often pass you by but you have just got to enjoy it. It is why you become a footballer, to play at Tynecastle, on a Saturday against Celtic, there is nothing better so you’ve got to enjoy it.

“The guys who have come in are all good players so the crowd shouldn’t be an issue.

“I think just to play at Tynecastle, in front of a full house, I think that’s what the new players are looking forward to.

“When you sign for Hearts you hear all about the Tynecastle atmosphere and that is what you look forward to.

“They will be thinking that they have done the hard work of going to Hamilton, and then played the early cup games where there wasn’t much of a crowd, so they will be looking forward to playing.”