Steven Naismith is set to remain a part of the Hearts coaching team after Frankie McAvoy was named as the new head coach. Following the departure of Robbie Neilson as the team’s interim manager, the former Scotland forward guided the team to a fourth-place finish and Europa League qualification last season. Although Naismith lacks the Pro Licence certification required to lead a squad in European football, he has been designated the club’s new technical director. Gordon Forrest has been confirmed as the first-team coach, while McAvoy has been designated head coach. The 36-year-old cannot start the licensing process until next year. They agreed to contracts that would keep them at Tynecastle Park through the summer of 2025, with an additional year’s option. The team will continue to employ Paul Gallacher as its goalkeeping coach.
“To announce Steven, Frankie, and Gordon as our coaching staff, we are overjoyed. After a thorough hiring process, we feel the three are the ideal candidates to guide us into the upcoming season while also sharing our vision for the club’s future. We got a number of good applications,” Hearts chief executive Andrew McKinlay said about Steven Naismith. “Steven is an amazing young coach who has a proven track record of developing players and showing a dedication to developing fresh talent. Due to his extensive coaching expertise on both sides of the border, Frankie has a strong track record of fostering potential. Of course, Gordon is already well familiar with the club. He is a superb presence on the practice pitch and a very talented instructor.”
“All three of them have really pleased us; they have a great dynamic, and we think they deserve this chance,” sporting director Joe Savage said. “They want to keep playing in a way that appeals to both the audience and the players. I believe the performances spoke for themselves; it was clear the players were committed to the goals they set. Steven has dedicated a lot of time to this goal and has had a fantastic playing career. I admire and support his sense of style and uniqueness. In order to grow and improve this team, I believe we’ll work well together.”
For more football news, click here
