Connor Ripley happy to welcome back Motherwell's experienced players

Ripley has conceded six goals in two Ladbrokes Premiership games but centre-back Stephen McManus returns from suspension on Saturday and left-back Steven Hammell will make his comeback from groin problems.

And with skipper Keith Lasley available in midfield following a calf injury, Ripley is confident they can improve against Hearts.

With Joe Chalmers also injured, winger Marvin Johnson played at left-back in last week's 3-0 defeat by Ross County and 22-year-old central defenders Kieran Kennedy and Louis Laing looked vulnerable as a partnership.

On-loan Middlesbrough goalkeeper Ripley, also 22, said: "We've had Mick (McManus) out suspended so had to put Louis Laing in. He's a great replacement but Mick is a massive part of our back four.

"Against Ross County that's probably the most inexperienced back five there will be in this league. That showed on Saturday but bringing back Hammy and Mick keeps Kieran or Laingy in check and it keeps them focused - and keeps me focused because they will talk to me and I will talk to them.

"It shows when you do have a bit of experience in the team that it does go a long way.

"They have all got around about 400 games under their belt so they know what they are doing. And with Las in front of us, he is 36 but he is an absolute workhorse. You don't think he is 36 apart from his hair."

Ripley knows Motherwell will have to improve against Robbie Neilson's team.

The 22-year-old said: "We lost 2-0 at their place and you could see they were a very good side. They wouldn't be second if they weren't. They are flying at the moment and we are struggling but hopefully the team at the bottom can beat them.

"The gaffer has told us we can't let our heads drop, to keep on working hard in training and that's what we have done."