Joe Savage shares Hearts title ambition as sporting director discusses his Tynecastle future

Joe Savage’s ultimate ambition is to see Hearts win the Premiership title.

The Tynecastle sporting director has been in his role for 18 months now, and the Jambos have earned praise across the board for their recruitment since the former Preston North End transfer chief arrived.

Savage joined mid-way through the successful 202/21 Championship campaign and oversaw the January recruitment that helped Hearts get over the line that season.

Last summer was the big one though, as he and Robbie Neilson set about building a squad to compete in the top half of the Premiership.

They didn't just compete, however, they blew their rivals away and cruised to a third-placed finish, securing European group stage football in the process.

A Scottish Cup final defeat to Rangers meant the campaign ended on a disappointing note, but the big picture made for pleasant viewing.

The likes of Beni Baningime and Barrie McKay shone last term, while loan signings Alex Cochrane and Ellis Simms played a big part in the capital club’s success.

Third place will be the minimum target once again, while the Europa League group stages are just 180 minutes away.

To try and achieve those objectives, business has already been done to strengthen the squad.

Winger Alan Forrest has been snapped up from Livingston, while Australian defender Kye Rowles has been drafted into defence following John Souttar’s departure to Rangers.

Lewis Neilson;s contract situation at Dundee United meant Hearts were able to nip in and pick the teenage defender up on a free as well.

More additions are in the pipeline as Savage continues to negotiate deals in the background.

As for his own future, Savage is loving life at Tynecastle as he reflected on his year-and-a-half in the