Latest Hearts Updates: Ex-striker nears free agency and Dundee United boss piles pressure
It’s shaping up to be a pivotal weekend for Hearts in the Scottish Premiership as they look to secure a top-six finish.
The Jambos face Dundee United on Sunday, and a win could seal a spot in the top half — but only if both Motherwell and St Mirren drop points on Saturday. Victory would also allow Hearts to stay close to United, who currently occupy fifth place and a potential European qualification berth.
Should Motherwell or St Mirren pick up points, it would set up a tense pre-split showdown next week at Fir Park.
Here are the key Hearts headlines heading into the weekend:
Ex-Hearts striker’s future up in the air
Stephen Humphrys, a fan-favourite during his 2022/23 loan spell at Tynecastle from Wigan Athletic, is now with Barnsley but facing an uncertain future.
Having joined the League One side on a one-year deal last summer, Barnsley hold the option to extend his contract — but that clause hasn’t been triggered yet. Interim boss Conor Hourihane was non-committal when asked about Humphrys’ long-term prospects at Oakwell.
“Stephen’s a real talent at this level,” said Hourihane. “He’s powerful, explosive, and can hurt teams — just like he did at Wigan in his short time on the pitch. I asked him to put in the work off the ball and he really bought into it. He’s a dribbler, can beat players, and has that ‘X factor.’
“Whether he’ll still be here next season, I don’t know — those conversations aren’t part of my role right now. But there’s no doubt he’ll be a major asset, whether for Barnsley or someone else.”
Dundee United boss plays mind games ahead of Hearts clash
Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has turned up the pressure on Hearts by claiming Sunday’s game is a “must-win” for Neil Critchley’s side.
“It’s a brilliant fixture — one of the best away days in the league for the atmosphere and stadium,” said Goodwin. “But it’s a game Hearts simply have to win, given where they are and how strong St Mirren’s form has been.”
With multiple teams still battling for a top-six spot, Goodwin believes Hearts will need to go all out for the three points.
He added: “We know what’s at stake for us, too. We’re one point away from hitting our 45-point target set at the start of the season. With two games left, we’re focused on finishing strong.”
Sunday’s clash at Tannadice could prove decisive for both clubs’ ambitions heading into the post-split portion of the campaign.
