Neil Critchley got his Hearts tenure off to a winning start by thumping St Mirren at the weekend.
The games keep coming thick and fast and up next is his European bow with Cypriots Omonia Nicosia in town for a Conference League clash. Neil Lennon’s old team have ex-Rangers defender Filip Helander in their ranks and will be tough opposition.
But this would have been a game the Jambos earmarked for potentially picking up points when the league phase draw was made and confidence will now be flowing through the team after resoundingly taking care of the Buddies.
Critchley went with a 4-4-2 formation for his first game – will he stick to that after the success it had or tweak thigs for Europe?
Here is Not the Old Firm’s predicted XI for the Tynecastle clash.
Hearts predicted XI vs Omonia Nicosia
GK – Craig Gordon
The veteran goalkeeper, 41, has won his place back for club and country and has been in good form since doing so.
RB – Daniel Oyegoke
Played very well for two games in a row and opened his Hearts scoring account with a sensational strike to make it 2-0 against St Mirren, a crucial goal on the way to victory.
CB – Frankie Kent
A stalwart at the back and very, very important to the Jambos.
CB – Kye Rowles
One of the standouts against the Buddies and the partnership with Kent has potential if the Aussie can find consistency individually.
LB – James Penrice
Despite Hearts’ struggles, the summer signing from Livingston has been a bright spot and was another who shone at the weekend. Former manager David Martindale has been waxing lyrical about the left-back’s qualities.
CM – Beni Baningime
Back in the side and Critchley will be hoping he can stay fit as he is crucial in the middle of the park.
CM – Malachi Boateng
Provided a solid base along with Baningime at the weekend which allowed the creative players for flourish further forward.
RM – Yan Dhanda
Has forced his way into the side after struggling to break in under Steven Naismith. A goal and an assist to his name so far.
LM – Blair Spittal
A similar story to Dhanda but Spittal is now looking like a key man. Two goals in his last two games, both very well taken strikes.
ST – Lawrence Shankland
Fans were concerned about Shankland’s situation after he headed up the tunnel after being subbed on 65 minutes. But had provided a quality assist for the opener and will be key in upcoming fixtures.
ST – Kenneth Vargas
Back on the goal trail with one for his country and then another on returning to club. Needs to find that composure consistently.