Hearts skipper Souttar eyes up Betfred Cup

THE scintillating start that Hearts had – until their unimpressive 0-0 draw with Livingston at Tynecastle on Saturday at least – made to the Ladbrokes Premiership campaign had led many to speculate about their future prospects.

But nobody within Craig Levein’s squad had suggested they could challenge for the Scottish title this season after they had won their opening five league games.

The Betfred Cup, though, is an altogether different matter. The capital club’s players are keen to enjoy an extended run in the competition. What is more, they believe they are more than capable of going all the way.

Overcoming Motherwell, who reached the final of the tournament and the William Hill Scottish Cup last season, won’t be easy.

But John Souttar, the Hearts captain and centre-half, is happy to admit they would like to progress further and are confident they can, despite their off day against Livingston, vie for silverware.

“The game on Saturday was a harsh lesson,” he said. “But we’re unbeaten and you don’t want to be too negative. We’ve won the first five of the season and we’ve started really well. It’s important we don’t let the heads drop after one game. It’s not the end of the world.

“The full focus is on Wednesday. Motherwell are no pushovers. It’s important we go again on Wednesday and get the win that will take us to Hampden. I think that would top the start to the season to be honest.”

Souttar added: “A club like Hearts have to win cups, it’s as simple as that. It’s a great chance for us.”