Hearts' Robbie Neilson explains why Arbroath's Dick Campbell should win award and manage at higher level

Robbie Neilson nods as the case is made for several manager of the year candidates, but while many top-tier gaffers are vying for the honours, his vote went to a lower-league figure he believes could be in greater demand going forward.

The Scottish Football Writers’ shortlist includes Scotland boss Steve Clarke, who has the national men’s team on the verge of a World Cup for the first time since 1998.

Ange Postecoglou could finish his first season at Celtic with the league and cup double, while Malky Mackay has the opportunity to help Ross County clinch a European spot.

Rangers manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst did not make the shortlist despite guiding Rangers to the Europa League semi-finals and the Scottish Cup final, where his team face Neilson, who did. The Hearts squad are gunning for silverware, having already secured third place in their first season back in the top flight and they also have European group football to look forward to next season.

All solid contenders for the end of season award, but the Tynecastle gaffer believes there is someone even more worthy – Arbroath manager Dick Campbell.

“I voted for Dick,” said Neilson. “He has had an outstanding season. I know the league [Championship] well and it is a tough league to play in and he has managed to get a part-time team, having, firstly, built the team over the last four or five years, keeping the guys like Ricky Little and Tam O’Brien all together and creating a squad and adding bits and pieces to it, then almost got the title which would have been unbelievable. To even get to the playoffs for them is outstanding.

“He loves the game and if you speak to Dick, and I do speak to him every now and again, because we have a player there on loan. Dick is so