Derek McInnes Set to Usher in New Era at Hearts as Liam Fox Bids Emotional Farewell
A new chapter is on the horizon for Hearts, with Derek McInnes poised to take charge, marking the beginning of a fresh era at Tynecastle. His arrival comes following the departure of interim boss Liam Fox, who ended his tenure on an emotional high note after guiding the team to four consecutive victories.
Fox fought back tears after Hearts’ season-closing 1-0 win away at Kilmarnock. Despite being reduced to 10 men after Yan Dhanda’s first-half red card, Stephen Kingsley’s late strike secured the three points and a seventh-place finish in the Premiership. The away supporters paid tribute to Fox at full-time, chanting his name as he prepared to step down.
A boyhood Hearts fan, Fox began both his playing and coaching journey at Riccarton. He twice took the reins on an interim basis this season and leaves with a respectable five wins from seven games in charge. Visibly emotional in his post-match press conference, Fox expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity.
“I just want to thank the fans—they really helped push us on,” said Fox. “I’m disappointed to be leaving, but I know I still have something to offer. Instead of being bitter, I’m choosing to be thankful. I’ve grown through this experience and I’m proud to have helped the club finish on a positive note.”
Fox spoke with pride about the four-match winning streak and described the final stretch as a period of personal and professional growth. He acknowledged the challenges of football management and the tough times he previously endured at Dundee United, but credited those experiences with helping him refine his coaching philosophy.
“Working with the B team after Dundee United gave me time to develop how I want my teams to play and function daily. That period helped shape me, not just as a coach, but as a person.”
Despite the obstacles—such as a red card and injuries to goalkeepers Zander Clark and Ryan Fulton during the final match—Fox praised the players for their resilience. At one point, his coaching staff even joked about assistant Lee Wallace stepping into goal, recalling his outfield stint in net during his playing days.
“Football management is never easy,” Fox said. “But the players dug deep and delivered. To end the season with four straight wins—especially under these circumstances—is something really special.”
As Hearts now look ahead to the McInnes era, Fox exits with dignity and a sense of accomplishment. His leadership during a turbulent period has helped steady the club and left the team in better shape for the future.
