What channel is St Johnstone vs Hearts? Live stream, TV, ref, VAR and team news as relegation battle heats up

Simo Valakari knows these are the types of games the St Johnstone need to capitalise on if they are to avoid the drop.

A home game at McDiarmid Park against a side close to the bottom of the table is a great chance to pull themselves away from danger. The Finn's first few games in charge of the Perth club showed much promise before wins became all too rare. Since mid January however the men in blue had seen a mini revival. Four wins in their last five games has seen a surge of optimism return. That was promptly halted by the 3-1 defeat at Rugby Park to Kilmarnock but signs of belief could be returning for Simo's new look side.

Neil Critchley, on the other hand, has overseen his Hearts side climb up the Premiership table. The Jambos were staring at a scrap to avoid 12th place at the turn of the year, but their form - boosted by the arrival of Elton Kabangu - has turned things around. Defeat to Rangers on February 16 was the first the Gorgie club have suffered this year. And the loss owed much to bad luck too, with a positive performance undone by two Jamie McCart own goals - meaning the capital club will still travel to Perth high on confidence.

There's plenty to play for and it's a game that could define the season for either sides, Record Sport can ensure you don't miss a single moment of action.

St Johnstone welcome Hearts to McDiarmid Park on Sunday February 23 with kick off at 12 noon.

Yes, it is. The match will be screened live on Sky Sports Football with coverage underway at 11am and the programme lasting until 2.30pm. If you don't have a subscription, you can sign up HERE . Fans are also able to join via NOW TV . A special six-month saver membership is available for £26 per month or you can pay £34.99 per month