Robbie Neilson insists the club's long-term goal is to compete with Celtic and Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premiership.
But the next step towards success is to reclaim a place in Europe. The Jambos boss still hasn't been beaten in the league so far after five games after Sunday's 0-0 draw in the Edinburgh Derby against Hibs.
He was the manager the last time Hearts played on the continental stage, defeating Infonet Tallinn before a shock exit at the hands of Malta's Birkirkara in 2016 Europa League qualifying.
The UEFA landscape has changed considerably since then with the introduction of the Europa Conference League and Hearts are looking a good bet to pick up one of those places after their strong start.
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