Where Hearts need to strengthen to 'reach new heights' - the 8-10 players and positions needed

“Now we can focus on the number one priority which is how we help the men’s and the women’s first teams really succeed and reach heights we’ve not done for a long time.”

Hearts chairwoman Ann Budge’s comments to The Scotsman’s Moira Gordon were bookended with a phrase that is likely applicable to all of the club's supporters. “I am really excited about that.”

This summer, with eight European games guaranteed and the prize money that accompanies them, coupled with Hibs and Aberdeen in transition, is an “opportunity to really kick on as Scotland’s third-biggest club”, as chief executive Andrew McKinlay put it.

“We want to stamp our authority on that and we would also like to close the gap on the two teams above us,” he told the Evening News.

To do that, it means qualifying for Europe regularly and getting access to the revenue streams of group-stage football.

But to fight on what will be four fronts next season – league, Europe and both cups – Hearts need a bigger squad.

It is understood that manager Robbie Neilson, having preferred to operate with a small squad this season, wants to increase that to 24 for the upcoming campaign.

Currently there are 15 first-team players contracted for next season, 16 if Peter Haring accepts the new deal offer put to him. Loic Damour has a year remaining but will likely be moved on once more. It wouldn't be a surprise to see the likes of Euan Henderson, Scott McGill, Cammy Logan, Aidan Denholm and Finlay Pollock exit.

That will leave room for between eight and ten signings. At this point supporters will be rubbing their hands. A new season, a European campaign and the club tooling up to look forward to.

There has to be at least two new centre-backs, especially with a back three a key part