McInnes faces Tynecastle return as Goodwin's United target Celtic upset
Derek McInnes expects a hostile reception on his return to Tynecastle with Rangers, while in-form Dundee United visit Celtic and winless Hibernian head to St Mirren.
Derek McInnes returns to Tynecastle on Wednesday as Rangers manager, a move that followed his near-miss at a historic title with Hearts in May. The summer also saw striker Lawrence Shankland and midfielder Cammy Devlin leave for Ibrox, and both are injured for the trip back. McInnes, who has spoken of feeling guilt over his exit, said he expects no warm acknowledgement from the home fans and understands their reaction. Hearts, four points behind Rangers, will want to show last season was no one-off after their heavy defeat at Celtic Park 10 days ago.
Jim Goodwin's Dundee United are the form story of the season, unbeaten in five and up to fourth after a chaotic 3-2 win over Aberdeen at Tannadice. Goodwin has credited inspiration from Jens Berthel Askou's Motherwell work for his shift to expansive football, a style rarely associated with him as player or coach. The test is a trip to Celtic Park, where United have not won in the league since December 1992, and Celtic are unbeaten in 51 home meetings in all competitions. Goodwin has beaten the champions twice in his past three meetings, both at Tannadice last season.
At the bottom, Hibernian boss Marink Reedijk is still seeking a first win after three straight defeats left the club rooted to the foot of the Premiership. He said the supporters' reaction after Sunday's narrow loss to Celtic told him the team are on the right path, and former midfielder Kevin Thomson has backed the side to come good. Hibs visit St Mirren, who ended a five-game losing run by beating Dundee on Saturday. Hibs have lost only two of their past 14 Premiership visits to Paisley, though supporters remain unconvinced by the team's plight.
Some fans flagged concern at Reedijk bringing on centre-back Grant Hanley as a striker on Sunday; the manager said that is not something to expect again. He insists positivity at the club is strong and that progress is visible, while acknowledging a result is needed. Only a win will ease anxiety among a worried fanbase ahead of Halloween.
