Barry Ferguson reckons Hearts need Steven Naismith back in their ranks if they're to have a chance against Rangers this weekend.

Former Gers skipper Ferguson says the Jambos are in serious need of a shot in the arm and Naismith could provide just that.

The striker, 33, has been out of action since August when he picked up a hamstring problem.

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But while Ferguson believes Naismith could be the spark Craig Levein's men need, he can't see past his old club for the three points this Sunday as they travel to Tynecastle.

"Hearts are struggling and I can see why they're trying to get Naisy back," he told PLZ Soccer.

"For me, he's their top player and when he plays in the Hearts team, they're a different team.

"But I can't see anything else, apart from Rangers winning the game.

"If you want to try and stay at the top of the league and achieve things, these are the places you've got to go and win games."

Ferguson has also backed Steven Gerrard's men to win dirty in Edinburgh after watching them go top of the Scottish Premiership.

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Two 5-0 wins on the spin against Aberdeen and Hamilton respectively put Gers on top as Celtic dropped points in consecutive weeks with a draw at Hibs and defeat to Livingston.

He added: "They've done the hard thing getting to the top of the league but if you want to stay and challenge you've got to go to places like Tynecastle, Easter Road, Fir Park and win football games.

"No matter how you play, that goes out the window. It's about getting three points."