Neil Critchley has not even got his feet under the desk as Hearts‘ new manager.
And yet, fans are divided on his appointment after he was confirmed by the club this morning via their social media channels.
The former Blackpool and Queen’s Park Rangers boss was handed a deal to take him through until 2027 having also previously worked under Steven Gerrard at Liverpool’s academy.
He won promotion to the EFL Championship with the Tangerines previously and was identified in part thanks to Tony Bloom’s analytics company who picked him out among the top candidates.
Chief executive Andrew McKinlay made his feelings known on the 45-year-old and admitted to the club’s website that he was delighted to welcome the Englishman to Gorgie as he feels there can be success following the sacking of Steven Naismith.
Critchley has a big job on his hands having taken over with the club winless at the foot of the Premiership table.
But supporters have been left divided on their new man in charge with some questioning his credentials having taken a closer look at his record at previous clubs.
Some pointed towards his relatively quick sackings at Blackpool and the Hoops as reasons not to hire him at Tynecastle.
Fans had their say on Critchley’s appointment as new Hearts boss
Others were more optimistic about their new appointment and insisted their fellow punters “give their heads a wobble” and get on with supporting Critchley and the squad in a bid to turn their fortunes around together.
One fan took to social media to welcome the Englishman with open arms, saying: “Great appointment! Highly thought of at Liverpool, let’s get to work.” Another commented: “Some fans heads need a wobble, back the manager”.
One wrote: “Brilliant news, welcome to Hearts!! Looking forward to seeing what he brings to the team. Good luck Neil!”
A fourth added: “Time to get behind the new manager… Big few weeks ahead.”
Neil Critchley’s first game as Hearts manager
Others were not so convinced with one saying: “Disappointing,” as a second wrote: “Announce Neil Critchley has been sacked”.
One added: “Dreadful appointment. Hopefully, brings in Craig Levein as Director Of Football.”
Another simply commented: “Sigh.”
Critchley begins his tenure at home to St Mirren this weekend.