ODDS PROVE WE'RE IN HUNT

Shanks hold no grudges ... and is flying under Del

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said: “I think it’s always been there [favourites tag] because of the history of Scottish football.

“It's hard not to address what the two Old Firm clubs have done.

“It's something that you do need to deal with but it’s about playing the Rangers team and the Celtic team that's in front of you on the day.

That has always been the case but I think our position helps, we're in a strong position and our reputation this season helps bring confidence.

“We should be confident because of where we are because we deserve to be there at the minute and we can gain the confidence in these games.

“Going in as favourites, it's a wee bit of pressure on you but it's one that we're capable of dealing with. Hopefully we can go and come out the favourites as well at the end of it.”

Hearts will aim to maintain or extend their six-point lead over second-placed Celtic this afternoon by dumping Danny Rohl’s side, who sit three points worse off than the Hoops.