Hearts hero Ryan Stevenson gets the excuses in early as he compares the difference between Celtic and Kilmarnock

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There are only a few weeks to go before the biggest game of the domestic season so far.

Hearts are leading the way in the Scottish Premiership at the moment and are two points clear of Celtic.

Tony Bloom wants to topple Celtic and Rangers, but he and Hearts know there is a long way to go before that becomes a reality.

Despite that, Hearts hero Ryan Stevenson has already been quick to get the excuses in should Brendan Rodgers’ side prove their worth and win at Tynecastle.

• READ MORE: Ex-Celtic man Tony Watt gives brutally honest reason why he moved to Bulgaria

Ryan Stevenson says playing Kilmarnock will be harder than Celtic

Before Hearts host Celtic, they must play another high-flyer in Kilmarnock, who have made a bright start under Stuart Kettlewell.

Stevenson admitted that all eyes are on the Hoops, but that will feel like a walk in the park compared to their first test.

Writing in the Daily Record, he said: “Listen, most fans have an eye on the Celtic game which is looming on Sunday week. We all know what beating the champions would mean in terms of hopes and dreams for the rest of the season. But I can’t state enough how important it is to make sure the work is done successfully at Rugby Park beforehand.

“Matches against Hibs, or Celtic, or Rangers are easy for you. You are chomping at the bit. I’d be skipping down the stairs in the morning itching to get into it.

“With the greatest of respect, you are not bouncing out of the bed and skipping down the stairs for a trip to play on the artificial pitch at Killie.”

Hearts are Celtic’s biggest threat this season

With Rangers firmly out of the picture, it does feel as though it is time to take Hearts seriously.

Aberdeen fell off after 10 games, but there seems to be something different about the way that this Hearts side operate.

Derek McInnes has been here before and knows that this will be a long, gruelling test of endurance.

As for Celtic, the goal is simple: beat Hearts on 26 October to ensure they return to the top of the table and have things entirely in their hands.