Naismith on Gordon recovery, away allocations & Clark's cap debut

There were "loads of positives" in the 2-2 derby draw with Hibs last time out and "small details" cost Hearts.

Naismith believes it is realistic for Craig Gordon - who is nearing a return from a double leg break - to target a place in the Scotland squad for Euro 2024.

It was "brilliant" for Gordon to make his return in a bounce game - "the first next step for him" and he is now consistently training and needs time to sharpen up.

Craig Halkett is also back in training but isn't ready to play. Yutaro Oda and Alex Cochrane are available after injury.

Facing league leaders Celtic is an "enjoyable" game for Hearts' return to action.

With Celtic allocated around 570 tickets for Sunday's game, Naismith says Hearts need to put their fans first given the growth of the club but he understands that opposition supporters enhance the atmosphere.

He says Scottish football could learn from other European leagues when it comes to allowing away fans, adding: "But at this moment in time the way everything is, the club has to look after itself."

Zander Clark's Scotland debut is "massive" for the goalkeeper and due reward after "sacrificing a lot" to be in several previous squads without playing.

Naismith praised Steve Clarke, whom he worked with prior to talking the job at Tynecastle, and says the Scotland manager has a “calmness” that helps the squad settle and also sets realistic goals the team can achieve.