Hearts legend weighs in on manager search as McInnes backed for role
Hearts icon John Robertson has shared his thoughts on the club’s search for a new manager, with Derek McInnes receiving support from pundits as a strong contender for the role.
During Hearts’ 3-1 Premiership victory over Ross County — their first game since parting ways with Neil Critchley — frustrations were aired by supporters, with chants aimed at the board after Ronan Hale’s early goal for the hosts. Interim boss Liam Fox helped steady the ship, guiding the team to a vital win that puts them eight points clear of the relegation play-off spot with just three games left to play.
Although there’s no clear favourite to succeed Critchley, Robertson believes the absence of key club figures Andrew McKinlay and Graeme Jones from the match in Dingwall signals that the search is already underway. Speaking on BBC’s Sportsound before the match, he noted: “The fact they’re not here suggests they’re off speaking to potential candidates. They have to get this right — it’s that simple.”
Former Hearts player Allan Preston also weighed in on the panel, throwing his support behind current Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes. Praising his track record at Aberdeen and recent achievements at Killie, Preston said: “Derek would be a great fit. He’s someone who brings in his own players, but questions remain over whether he’d work within Hearts’ structure. Still, for me, he offers the stability the club needs.”
Meanwhile, interim coach Liam Fox expressed relief after the much-needed win, saying: “It’s been a tough week, so I’m pleased for everyone involved. It’s an honour to lead this club, even temporarily. We’ll now turn our attention to preparing for Motherwell next.”
