NafisaKris Boyd has issued a warning to Celtic and Rangers that Hearts are only set to grow stronger, insisting this current side could be “the worst” they will be for quite some time.
Derek McInnes’ side are three points clear at the summit of the Premiership with just three games remaining, leaving them on the verge of a first league title in 66 years. While many have framed this as a rare opportunity, Boyd believes it is only the start.
“I think that this is the worst Hearts will be,” he said on the William Hill Warm Up podcast. “I think they’ll improve over the summer, and their squad will get better.
“I touched on it at the start of the season, but they’re ahead of schedule.”
Boyd highlighted the data-led structure behind the scenes, supported by Tony Bloom and Jamestown Analytics, and drew comparisons with clubs such as Brighton and Union Saint Gilloise.
“If you look at a lot of the recruitment at Brighton and Union Saint Gilloise – that’s the comparison you’ve got to look at, there aren’t many who arrive and hit the ground running.
“That six-month period for the January ones until the summer, they’ll be better for next season. A lot of their players will be better equipped and understand the game.”
He feels the current group will continue to progress, with further additions expected as Hearts build on their momentum.
“There will be more players coming in, so I do think that Hearts will improve.”
Boyd also pointed out that Celtic and Rangers will not remain static, with significant changes anticipated, particularly at Parkhead.
“I also think Rangers and Celtic will improve. Celtic have to, and it’s going to be a huge transfer window for them.
“Not even just a transfer window. There has to be an overhaul, and the whole club needs refreshed.”
Hearts’ recruitment model, however, is what Boyd sees as central to their long-term progress.
“Hearts will spend more money going forward. If they spend money, say a couple of hundred grand here, sell them on for £3million or £4million, then spend £750k or £1million.
“So there will be transfers coming in, but they won’t put themselves in trouble by doing it. They’ll move forward.
“For example, if they sell Claudio Braga, they’ll back their model to go and get somebody else to make the same impact.”
He also underlined the importance of leadership and maintaining a solid core within the squad.
“When you look at Brighton, and you think of James Milner and Adam Lallana, they’ve always had experience in the dressing room as well. Guys who can lead them, like (Lewis) Dunk.
“Hearts have done that as well, and they will keep the nucleus of a Scottish base and add a few other ones in there.”
For Boyd, Hearts’ rise is not a one off but an indication of what lies ahead.
“So again, this is probably the worst Hearts will be; they’re going to improve, and it’s probably good for both of them to get a punch on the nose.”
Nafisa
