Blair Spittal admits the Jambos are well aware of the step up in quality they’ll face when Sunderland arrive in Gorgie this Saturday for Craig Gordon’s Testimonial Match but says it’s a challenge the group are relishing.
The stopper's past and present clubs meet at Tynecastle on Saturday to honour the 42-year-old and his achievements in the game, but Spittal acknowledges that for the players, there is also a job to be done, as preparations continue for the league opener against Aberdeen.
Speaking to Hearts TV, Spittal said:
“It's a game we're looking forward to. Obviously now we've got the League Cup games kind of out of the way and we've done what we needed to do, 16 goals over the four games.
“It gives us confidence throughout the squad. We know Saturday will be the biggest test that we've had through pre-season, but it's one that we're relishing. Obviously, the occasion where Craig gets his testimonial is great for him, he deserves it for the commitment and what he's done for Hearts over the years.
It's a testament to him, but for us as a squad, it's about going out there and doing our job. It's going to be a tough test, but it's about building that momentum going into Aberdeen game.
We've obviously played against a number of top teams last year from England. We know what to expect, but at the same time, we've got to use this as the building blocks for next Monday.”
Tickets remain on sale for Saturday’s match and if you can’t make it to Gorgie, you can watch the match live on PPV.
