Tottenham’s first competitive game since May tonght and manager Harry Redknapp has an increasing injury list ahead of the trip to Hearts.
In demand midfielder Luka Modric is sidelined with a reported groin porblem but some suggest it is to keep the Croatian eligible for all European competition amidst renewed interest from Chelsea.
Tom Huddlestone remains out with an ankle problem and is joined bu Jermaine Jenas who has an achilles complaint and combative duo Sandro and Wilson Palacios, both of whom will miss out with knee injuries.
Steven Pienaar is still four weeks away from a return to training after groin surgery while in defence, William Gallas misses out with a calf problem and is joined by Ledley King who will also sit out the game with a knee problem.
Better news, however, as Redknapp can welcome back Rafael Van der Vaart who has recovered from an ankle injury picked up in pre-season.
Expected starting XI:
Gomes; Assou-Ekotto, Dawson, Kaboul, Corluka; Bale, Livermore, Kranjcar, Lennon; Van der Vaart, Crouch