Neil Critchley is keen not to pile the pressure on James Wilson to deliver for Hearts after a whirlwind week for the youngster.
Wilson has been thrust into the limelight at Tynecastle having scored two goals in his last three games for the club – one against St Mirren and the other a hugely significant strike versus Hibs.
His instinctive finish on Sunday at Easter Road etched his name into the Edinburgh derby history books and rescued Hearts a point to keep the unbeaten run going under new boss Critchley.
Wilson is rightly being lauded a hero but Critchley has issued a reminder that he’s still only a young kid and wants him to focus only on performing well for Hearts amid the increased attention which has been, according to the Englishman, ‘slightly embarrassing’ for Wilson.
Critchley on Hearts youngster Wilson
Asked initially about whether Wilson could start for Hearts against Kilmarnock tonight, Critchley said: “James is like anyone else. He comes into contention like any other player. If he’s performing well, training well, then he comes into contention.
“What I always have to take into consideration is, let’s not put too much pressure on him. He’s 17, he’s a baby. He’s got so much time. But the beauty of us and this club is we can give him that time.
“He was first on the training pitch yesterday morning. If he’d been in and amongst the group or coming out later, he would have got an ear-bashing. He’s a humble boy.
“I think he’s slightly embarrassed by the attention. He just lives for scoring goals and playing football. That’s all I want to keep his focus on at the moment.”
Critchley on early relationship with Hearts fans
Hearts supporters were initially sceptical about the appointment of Critchley a few weeks ago. But there’s been a shift in perception after his positive start and he admits whenever meeting fans in the street, they’ve been welcoming and supportive.
He said: “I have to say they’ve been very polite and kind and wishing me all the best and good luck. It’s been really heartwarming. I’ve really appreciated it.
“I understand that it doesn’t matter who would be sitting here – some people would agree and disagree or sit on the fence.
“I’m not an ex-Hearts legend. I’m not a sexy foreign name. I understand that, I get all of that. But I’m confident in my ability and I know what I can bring to this football club given the right people, the right support, the right conditions – and I’ve got that. So I’m really excited about what I can achieve here.
“I want to say you’re aware of how big the club is, but until you actually live it and feel it, it’s different. I’ve really enjoyed living that in the last few weeks and getting to feel the club and the supporters and the size of it, and you guys (in the media).
“It’s given me such a good feeling. I have enjoyed that responsibility and long may that continue.”