As we have come to expect from Neil Critchley, there will likely be a couple of changes to the Heart of Midlothian starting XI.

The head coach has a core of players that he has picked consistently while making a few tweaks from week to week.

A back four is likely, even if it is lopsided as it was versus Heidenheim, with Adam Forrester likely to come in for Daniel Oyegoke.

Beni Baningime is certain to start if fully fit. Alongside him, Malachi Boateng has been one of the regulars under Critchley and his height will be an advantage with Cercle Brugge's proclivity to shell long balls forward.

It could be a match in which Hearts have the majority of possession and therefore Yan Dhanda could be preferred to Alan Forrest.

Kenneth Vargas is in line to return to the starting XI after clear-the-air talks with Critchley and an apology to his team-mates. His pace will be vital, whether up front with Lawrence Shankland or on the right wing. Especially given that Musa Drammeh is unavailable for selection after his goal at the weekend.

The combination of the attack is something that Critchley has changed more often than not, even when using the same personnel. Blair Spittal has combined well with James Penrice on the left, but could come central and even play as a second striker. Vargas could be on the right or up front with or slightly ahead of Shankland.

Regardless of the set-up, it is likely to be different from the three-man-midfield set-up that started the most recent game versus Celtic.

(Image: BeFunky) Though not for the starting XI, Yutaro Oda could feature at some point after Critchley confirmed he would be part of the squad.

He feels he can get a tune out of the Japanese forward and his pace will be a welcome option for the Hearts head coach – for weeks to come, if not Thursday night.