Jim Jefferies today urged Hearts to make home advantage count when St Johnstone visit Tynecastle for the season-opener on Saturday 14th August.

Managers will tell you that they don't look at the league until the 'business end' of the season, but the Gorgie boss today admitted that a good start in the first six weeks of the season will go a long way to providing the sort of momentum that Hearts will need for a successful campaign.

And that's why Jim was satisfied when he reflected on the Clydesdale Bank Premier League fixture list, published this morning, for the new season.

Full of respect for Hearts opening opponents, given the outstanding season that St Johnstone, Hamilton and Dundee United all enjoyed last time out, JJ is, however, eager to see his new-look charges capitalise from the off.

"I'm pleased to start at home," he told Hearts News, this morning.

"We don't underestimate anyone, because it is such a tight league.

"St Johnstone had a terrific season last year and nearly made it into the top six, so we know they will be strong opponents.

"It can sometimes be a bit apprehensive taking on the first game of the season, especially when expectation is high, but we'll be looking to put in a strong performance."

Jim, like the entire football faithful in Edinburgh, is looking forward to a New Year clash against Hibs at Tynecastle.

"That's one you look out for on the list," he continued. "They are already special games so it's good to be at home."

With the season some time off yet (just shy of two months), Jim's current focus is on pre-season preparations.

The manager's confident he'll have a very strong squad, who will have been through a comprehensive programme of work by the time the Perth Saints arrive in Edinburgh.

"We've got a good pre-season organised, some tough matches, and whilst its not about the results, we want to make sure that we peak just in time for the St Johnstone game," JJ added.

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