Hearts: Unraveling the Command at the Helm of the Scottish Premiership Club

Former Hearts academy director, Frankie McAvoy, asserts that he will have the ultimate authority in making decisions for the upcoming season, while Steven Naismith firmly expresses his contentment with the managerial alterations. McAvoy recently assumed the position of head coach, while Naismith has assumed the role of technical director due to his inability to manage in European competitions without possessing UEFA badges.

Naismith assumed temporary leadership of the team during the last seven matches of the previous season after Robbie Neilson's dismissal, leading many to believe he would continue to be actively involved. However, McAvoy has stated to We News that this will not be the situation.

When it comes to differences of opinion and determining who we should play and start, the ultimate decision lies with me. I believe it's as straightforward as that. We collaborate effectively in terms of our desired setup and playing style, implementing our plans both during training sessions and on match days.

"At the end of the day, the only difference is who has got the final decision on the starting XI."

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Naismith took interim charge at Hearts last season

Naismith affirms that he has a concrete strategy to finish his Pro License, and he acknowledges that the structure may undergo further modifications in the future.

"We have all been content with the current arrangement. In the previous season, we had around seven or eight weeks to discuss matters, and there has never been a situation of disagreement," added the ex-Hearts forward.

"We are currently aligned and everything has been running smoothly thus far.

"I believe that there may be potential alterations for the future. However, for the present moment, we must acknowledge and embrace the existing framework, as that is what we will proceed with."

Hearts have made three summer signings to date, including defender Frankie Kent from Peterborough United, goalkeeper Michael McGovern following his departure from Norwich City, and Australia Under-23 midfielder Calem Nieuwenhof who joined from Western City Wanderers. Ahead of their Scottish Premiership opener against St Johnstone, McAvoy remains optimistic about further additions to the squad.

The former Preston manager added that the task is not as simple as bringing the players in and immediately going after the desired targets. It is necessary to go through a thorough process that takes into consideration what is best for both the club and the player.

"We've diligently worked behind the scenes to pinpoint our targets, and now comes the challenging task of persuading Joe Savage (sporting director) to work his magic and strive to finalize the deals.

"We've successfully secured three signings so far, and we're eager to bring in additional players. It won't be too much longer before we unveil our newest additions."

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