United boss is expecting strong Hearts

United finished fourth in the SPL last term, one place behind Hearts, who drew 1-1 with Paksi in the first leg of their Europa League qualifying third-round tie on Thursday.

Houston, who is set to field sought-after striker David Goodwillie, believes the Jambos have a squad capable of dealing with the demands of a European away match and an SPL fixture within three days.

The United boss said: "I don't think that will affect them at all. I think they've got a big enough squad. (Mehdi) Taouil missed out, (Andy) Webster missed out. If they're fit they might freshen it up a wee bit. And whatever Hearts team we face we know it's going to be a very strong one."

While Hearts beat United to third place last season, Houston says it is too soon to be thinking about getting a morale boost in the race for third place this term.

He added: "For us to talk about third and fourth between Hearts and Dundee United at this stage, simply because that's the way it has been, I think is disrespectful. It's the second game of the season, there's a long, long way to go."