Hearts boss Jim Jefferies today stressed the Gorgie faithful can be like a 12th man for the Jambos in Saturday's derby.

Despite the lunchtime kick-off against Hibs and the match being screened live by Sky Sports, the "sold out" signs for the home end went up days ago.

JJ has targeted the three points from the weekend showdown to help cement a place in the top six and has urged the supporters to play their part.

"Derbies are very passionate affairs and games you just hate to lose," he told the media at today's pre-match press conference at Riccarton.

"It doesn't matter what position you're in in the league or who won the last game, all derbies are different. You just go out there and treat it as a one-off.

"But the fans make the derby. The rivalry between the supporters is the main thing which creates a great atmosphere and that helps the players.

"They'll be too busy cheering on their team to bother criticising them. As everybody says they can be an extra man and we have the advantage as we will have more in the ground than they'll have at Tynecastle. We have sold out which is great given the early kick-off.

"We all know what it means to the players, coaches staff in both camps. It's a big game, a full house and we all know what's at stake."

Saturday's clash marks the first of three games at Tynecastle for Hearts before the Clydedale Bank Premier League splits and Jim is determined to make the most of the comforts of home.

"I have had eight games in charge and six of them have been away from home, with only two at home which we have won," he said.

"There is no doubt that we have been hampered by an incredible injury list and a lot of our recognised better, stronger players are on the treatment table. If we had them all available we'd be in the top six already I believe.

"We have had to patch things up, play players out of position and haven't been at our strongest. Hopefully we can get them back quickly. With three games out of the next four at home now it's important we get into the top six. That is the aim.

"Saturday is the same as any other derby - it is important to get the bragging rights. There is a different atmosphere in the camp, everybody is buzzing but there is three points available like every game. We need the points for the top six and they need them for their push for third so it should be a cracking afternoon."

On Hearts.TV today, watch Jim's pre-match press conference from Riccarton IN FULL!