Joe Jordan wary of warmed-up Hearts
Last updated on .From the section Football
Joe Jordan is concerned Tottenham could be caught cold in their Europa League tie with Hearts.
"It was disappointing that our opening game against Everton was cancelled," the first team coach told BBC Scotland.
"We haven't played a competitive game yet, going into a fixture like this which will be very competitive. Hearts have had a number of games.
"Physically, we've done our preparation but there's nothing that can take the place of a proper game."
Tottenham's opening Premier League match was postponed because of the recent rioting in London.
And the visitors' plans have been further disrupted by the Edinburgh Festival.
With the Scottish capital at its busiest, Spurs cannot be accommodated in a suitable hotel, so they are staying 50 miles further north in St Andrews.
As a result, Harry Redknapp's men passed up the opportunity to train at Tynecastle on Wednesday evening.
Jordan was manager at Hearts for three years in the early 1990s but the former Scotland centre forward has little room for sentiment.
"I enjoyed my time at Hearts on and off the field," he explained. "It was a terrific experience.
"But even if that association was last year, it's irrelevant. The club has moved on. Even in recent weeks there has been a change in management."
Jordan was at Fir Park to watch Hearts lose 1-0 to Motherwell on 7 August but Paulo Sergio's side bounced back with a 3-0 home win against Aberdeen last weekend.
"We had someone at the game against Aberdeen and I came up to watch them against Motherwell," said the 59-year-old.
"Our players will be aware of the opposition, individually and collectively."
Another former Scotland striker, Gordon Durie, believes Hearts have to go on the offensive right from the kick off.
"The difference between the clubs is massive," said the 45-year-old, who played for both teams, as well as Hibs, Chelsea and Rangers.
"Robbie Keane, who is a top player, can't even get in the Spurs squad of 25. That's what Hearts are up against.
"Hearts have got to try and get something at home. Tynecastle is a really tight ground and it will be a great atmosphere.
"Hearts' best option is to really have a go at them. Don't sit back and let them play because they have quality players all over and if you give them time on the ball they will punish you.
"Hearts will be looking to get in their faces early doors. It's all about starting the game well for Hearts.
"It will be difficult for them but if they can nick a draw that would be great."
