United switched to a 4-4-2 formation at Tynecastle and that saw Wilson drop to the bench. Today, his boss explained the reasoning behind that was largely tactical, though he admitted the former U/21 international’s recent form was a factor.

“I went with Peter Canero at right-back because I felt he was better equipped to deal with the threat of Rudi Skacel on Saturday. It was a tactical thing and there is a very good chance you will see Mark Wilson back in the side for our next game,” said Gordon.

“Mark is a very good player and I expect a huge amount from him. But people have to remember he is still only 21 and at an age when he will have dips in form.

“That can happen to any player and, if it does, I will pick someone else if I think it is better for the team. My job is about trying to get results for Dundee United and I will always pick what I believe is the best team.

“In the past, that has meant leaving out people who are regarded as our big names and it is something I will continue to do because the team comes first.”

United were bitterly disappointed at losing 3-0 on Saturday, though the fact this was Hearts’ seventh home win in a row, and they have lost just one goal in that run, maybe adds perspective to the result.

Even so, the manner of the defeat did not please the manager. “If you go there and they create good goals you come away with no complaints. We lost very poor goals and, most of all, put massive pressure on ourselves by conceding after just three or four minutes,” added Gordon.

“When you go to a place like Tynecastle you are looking for everyone to be at the top of their game. We had eight or nine who were way off that and I don’t think I’d give anybody pass marks. When that happens you are not giving yourself a chance.”

Grant Brebner limped off midway through the first half with a calf problem that is causing concern, while Jim McIntyre was the mystery pre-match injury doubt. He made the bench, but was not fit enough to start.