Hearts coach Gary Locke expecting different Hibernian side in early derby

Gary Locke will be working under a new manager next season following the departure of boss Paulo Sergio.© SNS Group

Gary Locke believes Hearts’ rampant win in the Scottish Cup final will have no bearing on the result of the first Edinburgh derby of the 2012/13 season.

The two clubs will go head-to-head in only the second match of the new Scottish Premier League campaign, just three months after the Jambos ran out 5-1 winners at Hampden.

Locke is aware the Hearts support will travel across the capital in buoyant mood but believes changes to both squads will mean for a different proposition.

“I don’t think the cup final will have any bearing on the match, although our supporters will no doubt go there in high spirits,” Locke told the Daily Record.

“It’s certainly interesting to meet Hibs in the second game of the new season. Both teams are likely to show a few changes.

Hearts will open the season at home to St Johnstone on August 4, with Hibs starting a day later at Dundee United.

The second Edinburgh derby will be held on January 2 at Tynecastle, with the last pre-split fixture between the two sides going ahead at Easter Road on March 9.

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