Hearts Football Club has made an impressive start to the season, positioning itself as a serious contender in the Scottish Premiership. A manager Derek McInnes side, properly gritty and bold. They are now two points ahead of Celtic at the first place of the league standings. Their impressive accomplishments would be far from complete without the inclusion of ten new players through expansion. Tony Bloom’s data firm, Jamestown Analytics, was instrumental in bringing it to fruition.
Lawrence Shankland has been the focal point for Hearts, netting four goals in their opening six league games. This weekend, he should score his 163rd goal in Scottish football. With that milestone, he became the most prolific striker in the history of the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) since its formation in 2013. We can say with confidence that the newly signed US internationalist’s contributions have been decisive in helping Hearts stay atop the league table.
Christophe Berra, ex-Hearts captain and Scotland defender, has described his belief in the side’s chances as “tremendous”. He seconded Bloom’s ominous prediction. He feels Hearts can challenge the Old Firm’s stranglehold and possibly win the league championship within the next ten years. Berra praised the team’s newfound look and said he’s excited for the opportunity to take the field together.
“The team’s flying, the manager’s come in and done an incredible job with the players and they’re in a really good place just now,” – Christophe Berra
Their recent signings have quickly proved their worth. Defenders Alexandros Kyziridis and Claudio Braga have partnered to net ten goals in all competitions. This incredible feat is yet again a testament to the rich talent pool within the roster. Berra went on to state that winning the league will be no easy task. He thinks Hearts has a good enough roster that it can do special things.
“I think we know it’s going to be a tough task [to win the league] but they’re in a good place just now and the manager has experience,” – Christophe Berra
McInnes is a man transformed. He is now unbeaten, taking charge at Tynecastle Park, and only furthering his credibility as a leader. Berra was quick to admit that McInnes came with a great track record, recalling his success in previous seasons with Aberdeen.
As the season moves on, Berra stressed that Hearts need to work on being more consistent.
“It’s just taking one game at a time, ticking them off, make sure we get the wins in and don’t get beat,” – Christophe Berra
Celtic still haven’t found their rhythm and Rangers appear to be very shaky. Berra is adamant Hearts have the quality to secure that prize of second spot.
“Celtic have not hit full steam ahead and you’re expecting they will pick up. Rangers look very fragile so first and foremost, I think second is there for the taking,” – Christophe Berra
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