Sir Alex Ferguson is publicly supporting Hearts in their Scottish Premiership title challenge, according to head coach Derek McInnes. The legendary former Manchester United manager, who last led a non-Old Firm team to the Scottish title with Aberdeen in 1985, has been in regular contact with McInnes throughout the season and plans to attend Saturday's Tynecastle match.

McInnes revealed that Ferguson has been offering tactical advice and sharing experiences from his own title-winning campaigns. The Hearts coach joked that Ferguson might be rooting for other teams as well, but confirmed the 13-time Premier League winner will be in attendance for both the Hearts game and the upcoming Old Firm derby. Ferguson's presence adds prestige to Hearts' push for their first league title since 2006.

Hearts face a crucial weekend as they sit four points clear of Rangers and six ahead of Celtic, who meet live on Sky Sports Sunday. However, McInnes confirmed a triple injury blow: record signing Ageu is out for the season, defender Stuart Findlay faces six weeks on the sidelines, and goalkeeper Craig Gordon will miss Scotland's next camp. With 12 first-team players sidelined, Hearts' depth will be tested as they aim to extend their lead over their Old Firm rivals.