Can Hearts fans dare to dream of title challenge?

The early-season optimism in Gorgie has been well documented following the £10m investment from Tony Bloom, who bullishly claimed Hearts are in a position to challenge for second this season.

Many sneered at the comments from the Brighton owner, but with each passing week that bold assessment is looking more realistic with Rangers in turmoil and Celtic yet to hit top gear.

Both Old Firm clubs will play their games in hand over Hearts on Sunday, but already Russell Martin’s men are 12 points behind the leaders while the reigning champions now have a five-point gap to close.

However, some have used Aberdeen’s collapse last term as a reason to put a lid on the positivity bubbling away at Tynecastle.

Jimmy Thelin’s side won 10 of their first 11 league games and were at one stage 12 points clear of Rangers, who then ended the campaign 22 ahead of the Dons.

But, like McInnes, former Rangers and Hibernian midfielder Kevin Thomson says Hearts fans have every to get carried away amid a stunning start to the season.

“The Hearts fans should be excited and get carried away,” said Thomson on BBC Sportsound. “They’re singing and dancing. That’s why we’re football fans.

“Can Hearts continue to beat the rest? I don’t think anyone can underestimate how difficult it is to win a lot of games on the bounce. It’s a tough ask.

“But, if I was a Hearts fan, I would be optimistic and getting carried away like everyone else.”