The Ibrox boss will return to Tynecastle on Wednesday, but will be positioned in the opposition dugout as Rangers manager.
Ahead of his return to Edinburgh, McInnes has conceded he did feel guilt over his departure, especially after the “injustice” of the culmination of last season.
The former Hearts manager revealed he had felt “let down” after Lawrence Shankland confirmed he wished to leave for Rangers, before making the move to Glasgow himself weeks later.
“I totally understand it,” he said when quizzed on facing a possible hostile reception. “I loved my time at Hearts. I need to say that. It was only a short time, but I thought my Hearts team were a breath of fresh air for Scottish football last season.
“I really enjoyed what we managed to achieve. It showed what could be done despite not having the huge financial muscle of Rangers and Celtic to compete with, and I was proud of what we did there.
