Neilson: It’s false to put us down as favourites
ROBBIE expects difficult derby
They haven’t lost an Edinburgh derby since 2019 but Robbie Neilson says Hearts are NOT favourites to beat Hibs today.
The Jambos gaffer insists the Easter Road clash is too tight to call, especially as Lee Johnson’s men have already had more competitive action this season.
It has been three years since the Hibees last beat their city rivals, as Neilson’s side have dominated the derby in recent seasons.
But the Hearts boss is adamant that – despite being fancied by the bookies – the visitors will have to earn the points in Leith.
Neilson said: “I wouldn’t say we are favourites. It’s a derby and we are away from home. It’s a difficult place to go so we’ll need to be at our best to get a result.
“Recent games with Hibs have been tight even though we’ve been successful in the last few.
“You have to bring your best and be ready for the intensity of it. The game can be decided by small margins so we need to be ready.
“We’re one competitive game into the season – Hibs are five.
“So there’s going to be an edge and it will be difficult.
“But we’re in a good place, with a good squad going there.”
Neilson played alongside Johnson and his assistant Jamie McAllister when they were team-mates at Hearts.
He hasn’t spoken to his opposite number since they became city rivals but warned Johnson that managing one of the Edinburgh clubs is a unique experience.
Neilson said: “I haven’t spoken to Lee since he got the job. With these games you just have to focus on your team.
“We’ll speak after the game.
“I’ve kept in touch back and forth but probably more so with Jamie, who I know well from his time here.
“Jonno was a nice guy but wasn’t here that long. We got on well but, with both teams wanting to win, that goes out the window.
“I’m not sure what experiences he’s had before in England with derbies – only he will know if he’s ready for the intensity of this one.
“It’s a unique one, a city derby, and there aren’t too many left that are as big as this.”