Shankland a Doubt for Dundee Clash After Cup Exit
Scotland international Lawrence Shankland is a doubt for Hearts’ SPFL Premiership match against Dundee, following the club’s grueling Scottish Cup semi-final defeat to Aberdeen. The Hearts captain missed Friday’s training due to muscle tightness and fatigue and may be sidelined for Saturday’s fixture at Tynecastle Park, the first of the post-split fixtures.
Shankland, who was subbed off in extra time at Hampden due to cramp, is still recovering from the physical toll of that match. Manager Neil Critchley remains cautiously optimistic. “We’re hopeful,” he said. “He’s managed some training this week, but we need to make a final call. It’s more about tightness and fatigue.”
Critchley noted the team exerted a lot of energy during the Aberdeen game, and the staff have been closely monitoring the squad’s recovery. Despite the setback, he praised the strong spirit within the team and is hopeful it carries through into Saturday’s performance.
Response to Controversial Semi-Final Defeat
Hearts were left reeling after a 2-1 extra-time loss to Aberdeen, a match marred by controversy and three red cards handed out by referee John Beaton. Critchley supported the club’s decision to release a public statement expressing concern over the officiating.
“It’s been a tough few days, as you’d expect,” Critchley said. “But the disappointment must now turn into motivation. We’ve moved forward as a group.”
While acknowledging a sense of injustice, Critchley avoided blaming officials, maintaining a focus on improvement from within. “We are where we are because of ourselves,” he said. “That’s always the message. Margins in football are tight, but it’s on us to get better and not rely on others.”
Pushing for a Strong Finish Despite Bottom-Six Status
With Hearts locked into a bottom-six finish and no route to European qualification, Critchley insists the remainder of the season is about pride, effort, and setting the tone for what’s to come.
They currently sit six points clear of Dundee, who are second-bottom and battling relegation. “We’ve got five games and 15 points to play for,” Critchley said. “We’re focused on winning the next one – against a Dundee side fighting for survival. We need to match that fight and show our own commitment.”
The Hearts boss also emphasized that their current league standing won’t affect long-term planning. “The recruitment strategy and contract discussions aren’t impacted,” he said. “We have a plan and we’re sticking to it. The work behind the scenes continues as we aim to keep improving both the squad and the club.”
