Hearts manager Craig Levein has opened up on Paul Heckingbottom’s “good start” at Easter Road – and admits that the Hibees will be “feeling a wee bit better about themselves.”
Since replacing Neil Lennon in February, Heck has avoided defeat in the league and propelled his side into contention for a Europa League spot.
(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Levein points to the Hibees effectiveness in front of goal as a bit reason for their recent success and thinks a good early run is “really important” for any new manager.
“It’s always the same if you arrive somewhere and get off to a good start,” Levein told his pre-match press conference at Oriam.
(photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)
“There’s two things happen; the supporters get right behind you and the players think ‘aw aye, this guy knows what he’s talking about’. The start is really important wherever you go and he’s got off to a good start. I’ve watched quite a few of the matches now and for me, they score at the important moments and don’t pass up many opportunities.
“They’re obviously feeling a wee bit better about themselves, which is understandable.”
This weekend’s meeting between the Edinburgh rivals will give Levein’s side the ideal opportunity to bounce back from the 3-1 defeat by Rangers last week.
(photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)
With the Scottish Cup final rapidly approaching, beating their biggest rivals would be a huge boost ahead of the Hampden clash.
Levein’s been there and done it all in Edinburgh derbies so knows what he needs to do this weekend – and a good win over Hibs would go a long way to easing some of the pressure on the Jambos manager.