Steven Naismith tells Hearts fans what will define him as boss admits easy retirement can't match dugout buzz

Frankly, Steven Naismith doesn’t need the money - and he could certainly live without the Twitter trolls chucking their tuppence in too.

A glittering playing career with Rangers, Everton and Scotland means the Hearts gaffer is set for life. But there’s somethings cash can’t buy and that includes the buzz Naismith once got every time he pulled his boots on.

The thrill of management is the nearest thing he’s found to running out in front of sell out crowds at Ibrox, Goodison and Hampden. And it’s also why he’s now willing to put up with the critics who never miss the chance to clatter at their keyboards every time they come up with the notion they could do a better job than the 37-year-old. The Hearts gaffer admits he could have snuck off into retirement if he wanted a quiet life but it’s the dugout adrenalin ride that has dragged him back into the game.

However, Naismith also knows that chasing a quick hit which wins over fans but has no longer lasting impact could quickly see him back on the outside looking in.

That’s why he can’t deny that even a victory over Rangers at Hampden tomorrow might not be enough to convince the Tynecastle detractors who have sprouted during a troubled start to the campaign if it doesn’t lead to Viaplay Cup glory come December 17.

“Results, no matter the game, is what gets you that belief and time,” he confessed. “We’re definitely in an era where everything is must-win and if you don’t win by tomorrow it’s not good enough.

“But that’s the way it is and you just need to have a calmness to understand it. Opinions are massive on social media now and every week there’s another one doing the rounds.

“All I can do is continue to work hard, continue to see progression and hopefully, and this is