Hearts manager Robbie Neilson has admitted that it has been tough to pinpoint the perfect player to bolster the club’s strike options, explaining that the money and clout in England pushes Scottish clubs down the pecking order. The Tynecastle club are building towards the new season and ran out 1-0 winners in the latest test against Lowland League side Spartans.
A 10th-minute Euan Henderson goal proved the difference for Hearts, who had a number of first team players playing throughout the 90 minutes – including a few former Spartans youngsters.
After a far more convincing performance against East Fife the previous evening Neilson said his team missed the pace and tempo he was seeking but admitted they are a work in progress.
He tested out a trialist up front in the final 30 minutes of the match and while he failed to make a breakthrough against a well-organised Spartans team he will be given another shot to impress at the weekend. “I thought we were a bit slow in the movement of the ball,” said the Hearts boss. “They played last night and were miles better.