Out-of-form Hearts face tough test against Dundee United

Recommended bet: Under 3.5 goals

Recommended bet: Away win in the handicap three-way market

Hearts lined up in a 4-2-2-2 formation in their last league match, with Amadou Ba partnering Braga in attack, but the combination had little impact. Although midfielder McEntee opened the scoring, the defence collapsed under late pressure as Hearts turned a lead into defeat. Centre-back Findlay was also sent off and is suspended for this match.

Dundee United used a 4-3-3 formation in their previous league outing, with Sapsford, Russell and Sander forming the front three. Sander supplied the pass for Russell to break the deadlock, while Russell has been scoring regularly in both league and cup competition recently and is a player to watch.

Hearts have no reported injuries, while defender Findlay is suspended. Dundee United have no reported injuries or suspensions.

Hearts have yet to shake off the disappointment of missing out on the league title last season. They have made a poor start to the new campaign and also suffered consecutive defeats in Champions League qualifying. In their latest league match against Aberdeen, they conceded twice late on to lose 2-1 after taking the lead. Their form remains poor and their attacking output has been modest.

Dundee United drew 1-1 with Rangers in their last league match and were not second best over the course of the game. Against an out-of-form Hearts side, they are capable of defending solidly away from home and avoiding defeat, with under 3.5 goals also worth considering.

Hearts are unbeaten in the teams' last three league meetings, recording two wins and one draw. They won the most recent encounter 3-0, while that match produced six corners.