Hearts began the season with high hopes—European football, Steven Naismith in charge, and optimism flowing from Tynecastle. But as the season draws to a close, the Edinburgh club finds itself languishing in the Scottish Premiership’s bottom six, with little to play for and yet another managerial search underway.
Naismith’s dismissal in September followed a dreadful start to the season, and Neil Critchley’s six-month tenure never took off. Critchley’s early success quickly fizzled, and after failing to break into the top half of the table and deliver a signature win, he was also let go.
Now, Hearts have turned to experienced manager Derek McInnes as their preferred candidate, with a formal approach to his current club, Kilmarnock, expected soon. But is McInnes the right man to lead the club forward?
McInnes: A Polarising Yet Proven Figure
McInnes’ tenure at Aberdeen made him one of Scotland’s most experienced and well-known managers. His eight years at the helm saw the club secure consistent top-four finishes, with a League Cup victory in 2014 being the highlight. However, opinions on his style of play remain divided. Some admire his tactical intelligence and ability to organise a team effectively, while others criticise his football as uninspiring and overly pragmatic.
He achieved significant results at Aberdeen, frequently finishing as runners-up in a league dominated by Celtic. However, his teams never managed to land the Scottish Cup, leaving Aberdeen fans wondering about the potential of the squad. McInnes’ departure from Pittodrie was marked by criticism of his methods, with many pointing to a lack of flair and creativity in his later years.
Hearts will be seeking both style and substance, but in their current predicament, stability is the priority—and that is where McInnes could fit in.
Why McInnes Would Suit Hearts
McInnes brings extensive experience managing high-pressure environments at top-flight clubs. He would understand the expectations that come with managing a club of Hearts’ size, and his track record of success in the Premiership suggests he could handle those demands.
His tactical approach is also worth noting. McInnes often plays with wingers on either side of a central striker, a formation that helped produce some of Aberdeen’s best attacking play. This style could suit Hearts, particularly as they have a potent striker in Lawrence Shankland. Under Critchley, Shankland was often deployed in a deeper role, but since interim boss Liam Fox moved him forward, Shankland has been much more effective, scoring four goals in two matches.
Shankland’s future is uncertain, with his contract expiring in the summer. McInnes’ relationship with Shankland—having signed and later released him at Aberdeen—adds a layer of intrigue. If McInnes does take over, convincing Shankland to stay could be one of his first tasks.
McInnes and the Hearts Structure
The managerial position at Hearts comes with a unique structure. McInnes would be working as the head coach rather than the traditional manager, under the guidance of sporting director Graeme Jones and a recruitment system that relies heavily on Jamestown Analytics.
Some have questioned whether McInnes would accept this setup, given that he has often worked in a more traditional managerial role. However, former Hearts defender and football agent Allan Preston believes McInnes would adapt to the structure, as he has done at previous clubs like St Johnstone and Aberdeen.
“McInnes doesn’t demand total control,” Preston said on BBC Radio Scotland. “He’s gone into clubs and created a structure that works, and he wants to do what’s best for the football club.”
Stability for Hearts
Many believe McInnes’ steadying influence would be exactly what Hearts need at this time. With the club in turmoil and another managerial search underway, McInnes could provide the stability they desperately require.
“Hearts need stability, and Derek McInnes has proven over the years that he can deliver that,” said former Scotland striker Steven Thompson. “This would be a good fit for both McInnes and Hearts, but not for Kilmarnock, who may struggle to replace him.”
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