STEVEN NAISMITH has performed the European. juggling act before.
But so had Robbie Neilson and Barry Robson.
And Naismith will be aware of the danger signs flashing just as brightly as the glittering floodlights of the continent.
As Hearts power towards a third-place finish in the Premiership, there is an obvious narrative that surrounds the prospect of guaranteeing group-stage football in Europe.
Prestige is important. The opportunity for clubs to mix in such circles is vital for their profiles. But even more important are the wonderful riches on offer from UEFA.
Hearts will be able to bank an extra £5million next season when they return to the groups, either in the Europa or the Conference League.
That offers a big incentive and boost as they aim to close the gap on the Old Firm. It can help Naismith attract more quality and, in theory, give them an even bigger fighting chance of trying to compete domestically with Celtic and Rangers.
But, as Neilson and Robson found out, there can be a heavy cost if it doesn't go to plan and if you can't get it quite right in terms of the balancing act.
Hearts' last venture was educational. After losing to Zurich in the Europa League play-off, a Conference group featuring Fiorentina, Istanbul Basaksehir and Riga offered glamour and a chance of points.
Both were grasped, although it did not come without a price.
Hearts suffered domestically.
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة May 01, 2024 من Daily Record.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 8500 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك ? تسجيل الدخول
هذه القصة مأخوذة من طبعة May 01, 2024 من Daily Record.
ابدأ النسخة التجريبية المجانية من Magzter GOLD لمدة 7 أيام للوصول إلى آلاف القصص المتميزة المنسقة وأكثر من 8500 مجلة وصحيفة.
بالفعل مشترك? تسجيل الدخول
UP BEATS CUP
Gordon says survival beats silver double... but he never wants to go through it again
It's goodnight from me and it's good knight from him
Maolida's time in Leith looks up but loanee tips Gray to ride to Hibs' rescue if installed
Bob's earned his stars and stripes.. let's hope days of feeling alien are behind him
Monty convinced Major show can boost Scot's sense of belonging
I've known Neil since 18, it was us against the world... you can't throw that away
FOR most people, going to work every day with your ex would be considered a fate worse than death.
NAVY NUMPTY
Lieutenant narrowly avoids jail for failing to spot 12,000-ton tanker
£45bn family vision is the business for Kate
Foundation could save UK economy a fortune
MUM'S THE WORLD
Scots catwalk queen Eunice Olumide reveals why she kept wedding and imminent birth of baby top secret until now
I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT REAL MARTHA
Jessica stays out of detective work
Sturgeon: My resignation a coincidence of timing
Former first minister opens up on storm since quitting
SICKENING
Teenager left bloodied by mob who tried to set her hair on fire as they filmed attack on their phones