ATHLETIC will host top flight opposition next month after they confirmed their latest pre-season friendly.

Ahead of their Viaplay Cup group stage campaign, James McPake's League One winners will take on Heart of Midlothian on Sunday July 9 at KDM Group East End Park.

The Premiership outfit, under the charge of newly-appointed coaching team of Frankie McAvoy, former Scotland international Steven Naismith, and Dunfermline-born Gordon Forrest, will make the trip across the Forth for a 3pm kick off.

The Jam Tarts finished fourth last season, earning a place in the UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers, a competition they were in last season, and which was won by former Dunfermline player, David Moyes, and his Westd Ham United side.

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The Pars will begin their competitive matches on July 15 when they travel to Fife rivals, Raith Rovers, for a televised 5.15pm kick off in their Viaplay Cup, Group F opener.

The friendly with Hearts comes as Dunfermline begin to firm up their pre-season plans, with their first game pencilled in for next Friday (June 23), and an exhibition match with German Bundesliga 2 outfit, St Pauli.

Dunfermline Press: Steven Naismith - pictured playing for Hearts against Dunfermline in a Championship clash in 2020 - will bring his side across the Forth next month.Steven Naismith - pictured playing for Hearts against Dunfermline in a Championship clash in 2020 - will bring his side across the Forth next month. (Image: Craig Brown.)

Two days after their clash with the Tynecastle side, Athletic are due to visit Alloa Athletic for a 7.30pm kick off, whilst the club will also send sides to play East of Scotland League, Premier Division Inverkeithing Hillfield Swifts, on Tuesday July 18, and Crossgates Primrose, on Monday July 24.