Celtic: Mark Fotheringham called to apologize – Derek McInnes

Hearts head to Dundee United on Saturday hoping to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League with Celtic and Rangers not playing until Sunday afternoon.

But McInnes says his players need to focus on what lies ahead rather than worrying about how other teams are performing.

He added: “I think we are capable of winning matches, but looking at the next four matches, each one of them represents a suitable challenge for us.”

“I’m really focused on making sure I pick the right team and trying to get the right performance. It’s not really about mind games and trying to send a signal.

“Take care of the game first, win the game, and then how people react to it is up to them.”

Hearts have confirmed that 22-year-old Ugandan striker Rogers Matu will join the club immediately after agreeing a loan deal until the end of the season with North Macedonia side Vardar.

McInnes is happy to bolster his options now, with Scottish striker Lawrence Shankland out until March due to a hamstring injury.

“I think the club did a good job to give him this window. We always hoped for that. I think he’s an exciting young player,” he said.

“He’s got a lot of pace. He can play up front. So he’s got a lot of versatility.”

“Sometimes I feel we need more speed at the top of the pitch. The potential is clear and he has done a lot for someone so young.”