Preview
Hearts have travelled to Switzerland severely depleted, with a 19 man squad that includes three goalkeepers and youngsters Gus Stevenson and Matthew Gillies, both currently on co-operation loan deals at Stenhousemuir.
Coach Vrancken is dealing with a major personnel crisis and will be without 15 players: Cavin Miller (11/5), Magnusson (9/0), McEntee (7/1), Harry Milne (6/0), Borchgrevink (5/0), Mato (5/0), Spittal (4/0), Ba-Sy (3/0), Dhanda (2/0), Ageu (2/0), Renaud (1/1), Kabashi, Kabangu, Benjaminsen and Halkett. The sheer number of absences significantly weakens Hearts squad depth and leaves the coaching staff with very limited options.
Thun produced an outstanding attacking display against Lausanne, scoring five goals in an entertaining 4:5 match. With Hearts travelling in such a weakened state, this presents an excellent opportunity for the Swiss side to build on their attacking momentum. I expect Thun to create plenty of chances and score at least twice.