Hearts manager Neil Critchley has been recognized for his team’s impressive resurgence in form since the start of the year.
After closing out 2024 with a home defeat to city rivals Hibs and a 2-2 draw against Ross County, Hearts turned their fortunes around in the new year. A crucial goal from Musa Drammeh secured a victory over Motherwell, sparking a six-match unbeaten streak. Shortly after, in-form left-back James Penrice netted the only goal in a narrow win at Dundee United, followed by a hard-fought goalless draw at Aberdeen.
Their momentum carried into the Scottish Cup, where goals from Yan Dhanda and January signing Elton Kabangu sealed a commanding 4-1 win over Brechin City. The month of January concluded with a thrilling 3-2 home victory against Kilmarnock, and a strong start to February with a big win at Dundee further strengthened Hearts’ push for European qualification.
While Rangers, Celtic, and Hibs have all impressed across various competitions in recent weeks, it was Critchley who claimed the Scottish Premiership Glen’s Manager of the Month Award. However, he was quick to credit the achievement to those around him at Tynecastle.
Speaking to the club’s official website upon receiving the award, Critchley said: “I’d like to dedicate this award to all of the staff, not just at Oriam but at Tynecastle too, and the players who have performed very well in the month of January. It’s a huge collective effort that helps us to perform from game to game and our appreciation goes to everyone who contributes in making this happen. Lastly, to our supporters who continuously back our team home and away; thank you.”
Critchley will now look to extend Hearts’ strong run when they face St Mirren in a Scottish Cup fifth-round clash on Monday night.
