Neil Critchley singles out ‘fantastic’ third Hearts star from St Johnstone win as fans declare him ‘levels above’

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Neil Critchley watched his Hearts side move to within one point of the top six with victory at St Johnstone.

An Elton Kabangu double gave the Jambos a 2-1 win in Perth, a massive three points which takes from 10th up to seventh and with the chance of leapfrogging St Mirren into sixth if they can beat them on Wednesday night.

Just one defeat in their last ten games means the Gorgie men will now fancy themselves for a European spot after flirting with the relegation places earlier in the season. They also have a shot at a Scottish Cup semi-final with Dundee at home to come in the quarters.

In his post-match interview with Sky Sports, Critchley waxed lyrical about Kabangu and Craig Gordon after their pivotal contributions to another victory.

But the performance of Beni Baningime didn’t go unnoticed either.

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Critchley praises Hearts star Beni Baningime

In Hearts‘ new diamond formation, Baningime is now the sole defensive force in the midfield with creative teammates Blair Spittal, Jorge Grant and Lawrence Shankland ahead of him.

Previously he would be in a double pivot, usually with Cammy Devlin who is currently out after a concussion.

The 26-year-old was crucial to the display yesterday, often breaking up St Johnstone’s play with tackles and interceptions.

His manager insists the dirty work that may be unseen by others is appreciated by him.

Critchley said: “Beni, yeah, because he’s playing in the middle on his own. Sometimes it’s a single six, it’s not a double. He has to cover the ground. I thought he did it brilliantly well against Rangers last week.

“Today, he does a lot of unnoticed work. The ugly side of the game, the regains, interceptions, puts his foot in, breaks up play.

“He helps us to then set up a counter-attack or start off our attacks. The last two games, I think he’s been fantastic.”

Hearts fans react to Baningime display

Hearts supporters certainly seemed to agree with their manager as they were all over social media singing the praises of the defensive midfieder.

One said: “How good is Beni? If he is fit every week he is Hearts’ best/ most important player. Great at winning & recovering the ball but can also escape pressure. Guy is different class.”

Another wrote: “Beni levels above.”

While another said: “Cracking result for Hearts in Perth today. Credit to both teams for trying to play on that pitch. All players fought for everything but Beni pick of the bunch for me.”