Why Hearts boss Robbie Neilson was pleased Raith Rovers manager John McGlynn returned to coaching

Hearts boss Robbie Neilson has spoken of his admiration or Raith Rovers manager John McGlynn.

McGlynn spent over 10 years at Tynecastle between 1996 and 2006, working in various roles, from youth coach assistant manager, even taking caretaker charge following the departures of both John Robertson and George Burely in 2005.

He would return in 2012 as manager after a successful period as Raith Rovers manager.

McGlynn is back in the Kirkcaldy hot seat but may not be in the dugout at Tynecastle for tonight’s Betfred Cup match. The 58-year-old missed his side's 2-1 win over East Fife at the weekend after undergoing surgery on Friday.

The minor operation meant assistant Paul Smith took charge.

“I've spoken to him over the years numerous times, still keep in contact with him so I wish him all the best,” Neilson said. “I'm not sure he's going to be in the dugout tomorrow night. Knowing John he'll be phoning the touchline, that's for sure.

"I like him as a coach, very thorough, probably the most thorough I've ever worked with and knows how to set up a team.”

He added: “It will be an interesting game. I watch their game against East Fife. They had a lot of possession. East Fife sat off the game. I expect a wee bit different tomorrow night against us.”

Hearts boss Robbie Neilson is full of admiration for John McGlynn. Picture: SNS

Training ground forte

Neilson worked with McGlynn both as a youth and first-team player as he emerged through the Hearts academy, the Rovers boss playing a key role in the development of a number of youngsters.

The Tynecastle boss admitted his delight that McGlynn returned to management after a spell scouting for Celtic.

“He developed a lot of good players coming through here, boys who went on to have really good careers," he said.

"I was pleased when he came back into management again. He was at Celtic scouting and I know he really enjoyed that. but John's forte is on the training field, doing analysis, working with teams.

“I speak to John now and again. Seen him over the years at games. If you are going to a game and Raith aren't playing, nine times out of ten you see John there. He puts the hours in.”