Calvin Miller has acknowledged that Hearts' Europa League third-round qualifying tie against Benfica is effectively over after their 6-1 defeat in Lisbon, but he insists the team will aim to salvage pride in the return leg at Tynecastle.
First win provides boost
Hearts go into Thursday's match on a high after securing their first win of the season with a 4-0 victory over Dundee United. Miller, who scored a penalty in that match, believes the result will give the team confidence.
“We really needed that on Sunday. It is tough going from European ties and back into the Premiership. If you aren’t getting the result midweek then you really want to be winning your games at the weekend,” Miller said.
“It will give us confidence. There were a lot of positives and we are trying to make it as hard as possible on Thursday.”
Tynecastle advantage
The winger, who was deployed as an emergency left-back against Dundee United, knows that a packed Tynecastle can make Hearts a different proposition.
“Hopefully, when you have that crowd backing you then Tynecastle can be a tough place to come. The pitch isn’t as big as Benfica’s, so it will be a lot tighter for them to try and play as well. We will be making it as hard as possible,” he added.
Difficult start
Hearts' season began with Champions League qualifiers against Sturm Graz and away games at Aberdeen and Benfica, a tough introduction for new manager Wouter Vrancken. Miller acknowledged the challenges.
“It was a difficult start in terms of the ties we have been drawn in. We are still learning. Learning his style and how he wants to play. You could see on Sunday the moments we had and the variety of goals we scored. They were all different types of goals and that was pleasing that it all came together,” he said.
Miller was delighted to open his account for the club, having been on penalties for Falkirk last season. He confirmed he had put himself forward for spot-kick duties.
“I would back myself. I was on penalties for Falkirk last season. It was decided before the game. I have been on them for the last two games. We have a list. I put myself forward and back myself. It was good to see that one going in. I always practise the day before a game,” he said.
Emergency left-back role
With six of nine defenders injured and no fit left-back, Miller was asked to fill in. He found out on Saturday and accepted the challenge.
“I found out on Saturday that I was playing left-back. The gaffer pulled me in that morning. He said six out of nine of the defenders are injured and he asked me if I could do a job? I am not going to say no, am I? I am always going to do what I can for the team. I am just thankful I have come out and put on a good performance,” he said.
Miller admitted he doesn't enjoy defending, but he tried to be aggressive and energetic. He joked that if asked to play left-back against Benfica, he would urge Harry Milne to return from injury.
“I am going to speak to Harry Milne and tell him to get himself in the group. I will do the job for the team at any point, but I want to be in my ideal position because that is how I got to Hearts, playing on the wing,” he added.
