Steven Naismith and Coaching Team Extend Contracts with Hearts Until 2026

Hearts Head Coach Steven Naismith and Staff Secure Contracts Until 2026

Hearts head coach Steven Naismith and his coaching team have signed new contracts that will keep them at the club until 2026. This decision follows an impressive season in which the team achieved a third-place finish in the Scottish Premiership and secured European competition for the upcoming season.

Achievements Under Naismith’s Leadership

Naismith, who took the reins last summer along with assistants Gordon Forrest, Frankie McAvoy, and Paul Gallacher, has not only led the team to a successful league finish but also to significant cup runs, reaching the semi-finals of both the League Cup and the Scottish Cup.

European Football After Three Seasons

The new contract is particularly meaningful, as it marks the first time Hearts have qualified for European football for three consecutive years. The team is set to face either Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih or Viktoria Plzen in a Europa League play-off tie later this month.

CEO Andrew McKinlay's Statements

In a statement to the Hearts website, CEO Andrew McKinlay expressed his satisfaction, saying, "I'm extremely pleased that we have secured Steven, Gordon, Frankie, and Paul's services for another year beyond this campaign. The progress made on the pitch last season was there for all to see and because of that, we have a truly exciting year ahead of us."

Commitment to Long-term Success

McKinlay highlighted the significance of this decision, noting, "By extending the coaching team's contracts, we are reiterating our trust in them and confirming our belief that they can continue to take the team on an upwards trajectory. Good coaching teams aren't always in abundance, and other clubs are always on the lookout, so the club also has peace of mind in terms of protecting its assets."

Future Endeavors

With the foundation laid by Naismith and his team, fans are optimistic about the direction the club is heading. McKinlay concluded, "Steven, Gordon, Frankie, and Paul have started the team on a journey, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing where they can take us."

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