Marius Zaliukas has been getting inside information on Hearts' Europa League opponents, Paks from a former Tynecastle team-mate.

The Lithuanian has been in contact with his countryman and former Hearts colleague, Linas Pilibaitis, who now plies his trade for Paks' rivals Gyori in Hungary.

After taking the advice of his former team-mate, Zaliukas expects a hard-fought game in Hungary.

The Hearts captain said: "I've spoken to my old Hearts team-mate Linas as he plays here in Hungary for Gyori.

"He said Paks aren't the best team in the country but they work hard, fight for every ball until the last second. I was surprised by their result in Tromso because everyone said the Norwegians were better - but that's football."

Despite suggestions that Paks are a weaker side than Hearts could have faced, the defender is taking nothing for granted.

He continued: "All the players know not to under-estimate this team. We're focused and we don't want to waste last season's achievements. I've heard Paksi say they are inexperienced and it's their first year in Europe but they can use that as a weapon against us."

Zaliukas was part of the Hearts side that were defeated 4-0 by Dinamo Zagreb last time they travelled in Europe, but is convinced that they will be better equipped this time around.

He added: "Our first game in Zagreb against Dinamo was terrible. But the pitch, the weather was different - we're two years on now and hopefully we'll learn from our mistakes.

"Next week we'll also have 12 players because it'll be a full house and our supporters will be a big help to us."