Hearts sack Steven Naismith following the 2-1 loss at St Mirren.
Steven Naismith’s tenure as Heart of Midlothian (Hearts) head coach has ended in disappointment after just over a year in command. The former Hearts captain was dismissed of his duties after a spate of dismal performances, including eight straight defeats, the most recent against St Mirren.
The team’s initial excitement after drawing their first league game against Rangers rapidly faded, and they have lost every match thereafter. Currently at the bottom of the Premiership league, the club’s leadership decided it was time for a change. Naismith and his subordinates, Gordon Forrest and Frankie McAvoy, were fired after a 17-month tenure.
A Club in Crisis.
In a statement, Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay thanked Naismith and his staff for their efforts over the last year and a half. However, he accepted the necessity for a change after the team’s poor performance this season. “Results and performances have fallen below the standards expected at this football club, and unfortunately, there is little evidence of any potential upturn in fortunes,” McKinlay told the press.
The club’s decision comes just ahead of their UEFA Conference League season, with management understanding the importance of stabilizing the team and avoiding further harm to their league ranking.
The statement highlighted that the club couldn’t afford to “stand still,” considering their fragile position in the league and on the European scene.
Naismith’s Response
Following the setback to St Mirren, Naismith stated his conviction that he could still turn things around. However, he admitted that there could be “consequences” for the team’s prolonged bad performance. “I’m realistic to understand that the more games we pass, the more pressure builds,” Naismith laughed.
Despite the regrettable conclusion to his managerial career, Naismith applauded the Hearts board, noting their track record of making wise decisions for the club. “The board is pragmatic, sensible, and understands the situation. They make sound decisions, in my opinion.
They have done for the club over the past five years,” he remarked, adding that he understands the fans’ dissatisfaction.
From Player to Coach.
Steven Naismith has a deep attachment to the Hearts. After a great playing career with Kilmarnock, Rangers, Everton, and Norwich City, he retired at Tynecastle and went into coaching. Starting as a young coach, he soon rose through the ranks to become head coach. While his management career at Hearts began promisingly, bringing the squad to victory last season, the drop in results this year proved to be his undoing.
As Hearts look ahead, the club has pledged to publish updates on both short- and long-term goals. For the time being, fans will be hoping that the new management will assist to turn the tide and restore the team’s fortunes.