Hearts fans' favourite Rudi Skacel WILL return to Tynecastle for Gary Locke's testimonial.
The Jambos legend will make the trip to the capital alongside a host of fellow clubs heroes for the first-team clash with English Championship side Stoke City on July 23. Skacel will be in attendance on the day and take part in half-time activities to honour Locke.
The match will act as Robbie Neilson and Co's final pre-season friendly as they come to end of preparations ahead of a huge campaign in Gorgie. Last season's third place finish behind Celtic and Rangers and a Scottish Cup Final spot earned a guaranteed crack at European group stage football. The Jambos enter the Europa League play-off round but have the parachute of the Europa Conference League proper should they suffer defeat in the two-legged tie to reach Europe's second tier competition. The likes of Gary Mackay, Dave McPherson, Jose Quitongo, Ian Black and Andy Webster will also be along on the day for the celebrations.
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At half-time Locke will be joined on the pitch by Skacel and many other ex-Jambos for interviews and a penalty shootout in front of the Hearts faithful.
A club statement read: "Rudi Skacel will return to Tynecastle alongside a host of Hearts legends for the First Team friendly vs Stoke City on July 23rd, which serves as Gary Locke's Testimonial Match.
"On behalf of the Gary Locke Testimonial Committee, the club is delighted to announce that Rudi Skacel will be in attendance on the day and will take to the pitch at half-time to honour Gary Locke.
"A host of former teammates will also be there on the day, including Gary Mackay, Dave McPherson, Jose Quitongo, Ian Black and Andy Webster to name but a few.
"The 3pm kick-off vs Stoke City will see Robbie Neilson's men run out for their final pre-season friendly before the league opener on July 30th. At half-time, Gary Locke will be joined by Rudi Skacel and many more ex-Jambos for a penalty shoot-out and on-pitch interviews.
"Don't miss out on what promises to be a fantastic afternoon in Gorgie as we honour our former captain, manager and current principal ambassador; the one and only Gary Locke."
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