Hearts' CEO Andrew McKinlay Discusses Naismith's Sacking and Manager S

Hearts FC Seeking New Head Coach with Analytics Support

The Hearts of Midlothian FC, a prominent club in Scottish football, is currently on the hunt for a new head coach. Andrew McKinlay, the club's CEO, recently announced that they will be collaborating with an analytics company to streamline their search for the right candidate. This decision comes shortly after discussions with Brighton's owner, Tony Bloom, over a substantial £10 million investment deal were reported.

Why the Change in Management?

Just weeks after signing a new contract extension, the club decided to part ways with head coach Steven Naismith. McKinlay expressed his regret over the decision but emphasized the importance of making tough choices for the team's future. He stated, "The stats are there - when it's one of the worst starts, if not the worst start in the club's history, it left us with a decision that had to be made." This statement sheds light on the dire circumstances that led to the unexpected dismissal.

Utilizing Analytics for Recruitment

When discussing the methods to find a new manager, McKinlay noted that the analytics company will not simply hand over a list of candidates. Instead, they will analyze potential candidates based on various data points, giving the club insights into which coaches might align with their goals.

Hearts have reportedly received a deluge of applications from interested candidates, showcasing the appeal of managing a historic club like Hearts. McKinlay remarked, "It says a lot about this club, and it's a fantastic job for anyone." He stresses the importance of selecting the right individual to lead the team.

Interim Coaching Situation

As interim coach, Liam Fox is stepping in, but McKinlay has made it clear that they are primarily looking externally for a new candidate. He expressed confidence in Fox's capabilities during this transitional phase but has not promised him the role permanently unless he truly impresses.

Investment Opportunities and Future Directions

McKinlay’s discussions with Tony Bloom hint at potential investment that could influence the direction of Hearts FC significantly. He stated, "I hope we can do something over the next six months, but we'll just see how things develop." In the context of club investments, he reassured fans that "no deal would be or could be done without them [the Foundation of Hearts] being happy with it."

How Will the New Manager Change Things?

McKinlay emphasized the importance of finding the right fit during this turbulent time for the club and indicated that the new manager must catalyze a positive transformation in the team's fortunes. "We need to get the right person and we are working on it," he pointed out, demonstrating the club's commitment to enhancing their competitive stature.

The Future of Key Players

Lawrence Shankland, the club's captain, is also navigating uncertain waters as he enters the final year of his contract. McKinlay revealed that there has been no new offer for Shankland since the last proposal was rejected, but he remains optimistic about discussions in the future regarding the player’s commitment to the club.

Conclusion

The hearts of Hearts FC fans are likely to be heavy with uncertainty at the moment, but exciting prospects lie ahead with the potential investment and the promise of analytics-driven decision-making in their search for a new head coach. McKinlay, committed to transparency and integrity, ensures that the club will not rush the process. As developments unfold, supporters will be eagerly anticipating the new chapter in the club's history.

Hearts' CEO Andrew McKinlay Discusses Naismith's Sacking and Manager Search