McInnes played under Walter Smith, a close friend of Ferguson, and the 84-year-old will be in the stands for Saturday's match against Aberdeen. The Hearts manager believes Ferguson's experience is invaluable as they look to secure their first title since 1960 and end the Old Firm duopoly.
"He knows my players... and some of them still can't get their head around that when I tell them," McInnes said. "I'm pretty sure that [Ferguson is rooting for Hearts] is the case." Hearts currently lead Rangers and Celtic in the race for the trophy.