Hearts Starlet Adam Forrester Praises Key Influence Behind His Rapid Rise
A promising young talent at Hearts has showered praise on a key figure working behind the scenes at the club.
Adam Forrester is still coming to terms with his meteoric rise from the Hearts ‘B’ team to earning a place in Scotland’s U21 squad—a journey he credits to an influential mentor.
The right-back has been selected for Scotland U21s alongside fellow Jambos Liam McFarlane and Finlay Pollock for upcoming matches against the Republic of Ireland and Iceland. This marks another significant milestone in what has been a breakthrough season for the academy graduate, who has successfully transitioned from the ‘B’ team to the senior setup at Tynecastle.
Liam Fox, after coaching Forrester in the club’s Lowland League side, handed him his first-team debut, and he has remained involved under manager Neil Critchley. Sporting director Graeme Jones, previously with the SFA, was the one to deliver the exciting news to the young defender.
A Rapid Ascent
Forrester’s journey has taken him from the demanding environments of fifth-tier Scottish football to performing in front of sold-out crowds. Reflecting on his progress after Hearts’ 2-0 victory over Ross County at Tynecastle, he told the Evening News:
“Less than a year ago, I was playing at some of the toughest venues in the Lowland League, and now I’m stepping onto the pitch in front of a packed stadium. It’s been an exciting week—getting the call-up on Wednesday, then securing three points at the weekend made it even better.”
The young defender recalled how he learned about his selection for Scotland U21s:
“Graeme Jones hinted that I might receive some good news, and when I woke up the next morning, I saw my name in the squad. It’s my first proper call-up—I had a brief training session with the U15s or U16s, but nothing came of it, so this feels like a real breakthrough.”
Forrester acknowledges the challenge of stepping into a squad with players who have been part of Scotland’s youth system for years but sees it as a valuable learning experience.
The Fox Factor
Much of Forrester’s development is credited to Liam Fox, the coach who gave him his big opportunity at Hearts. He also reflected on the journey he’s shared with fellow rising star James Wilson, now part of the senior Scotland squad.
“It’s crazy. Just a few months ago, we were in the Lowland League, and now we’re playing in front of big crowds. It’s a big step up, but I’m taking it in my stride and making the most of every opportunity.”
Forrester was quick to highlight Fox’s role in his progression:
“Liam Fox has played a huge part in my development. He made me captain of the B team, and I thrived under his playing style. When he took over as interim manager, he gave me my first chance, and I’ve been in and around the first team ever since. Even with the new gaffer coming in, he’s still been a great support—always available if I need advice or have any questions.”
As Forrester continues to establish himself at Hearts and now on the international stage, the impact of those who have guided him along the way remains undeniable.
