| JJ does not want to think about missing out on a top-six finish this year as he would consider this a failure for Hearts. The Jambos are two points ahead of seventh-placed St Johnstone, who face Dundee United and Aberdeen in their last two games before the split, while Hearts take on St Mirren and Kilmarnock. Jefferies accepts that fans should expect a top-half finish from the club every year. Looking forward to the game against the Buddies on Saturday, he said: "It was a case of coming in and trying to get into the top six and assess the players for next season. I thought we would have secured the top-six spot weeks ago but we had to chop and change, although that's something we have to contend with. Hearts set out at the start of the season with a target of being in a certain place and if they don't make it then of course they have failed. So it's up to the players. It is in their own hands and they have to show what it is to be at a club like Hearts. Top six means a lot to the club; bigger gates, another derby against Hibs and games against Rangers and Celtic. But for our own personal pride Hearts should be in the top six. They have to take that on board but I think the team is strong enough to get the two results. As I said, it is in our hands and that is the most important thing for us. If we win our two games St Johnstone can do nothing about it. But we need to realise the situation, step up to the plate and make sure. However, it won't be easy because there are never any easy games, especially against teams who will be fighting to avoid relegation. St Mirren and Kilmarnock both need the points desperately and there is pressure on them, they have their own agendas. St Johnstone, though, are fighting against a team battling for third place and Aberdeen need wins for their own cause. But we have to just look after ourselves, that is the main thing." Finishing in fifth place offers the possibility of European football next season but Jefferies refused to look that far ahead. The former Kilmarnock boss said: "Let's just concentrate on the two games. There is no point in talking about Europe if you don't make it. If we get into the top six then we will look and see the next place up and the one above that. But that's all hypothetical. We are not in the top six yet and we could lose out." |