Hearts' five-man list for new head coach

Hearts intend to select their new head coach from five names: Jon Daly, Steven Pressley, Paul Hartley, Billy Davies and Dougie Freedman. Those five have impressed Tynecastle directors and are vying to succeed Ian Cathro.
Interim head coach Jon Daly and assistant coach Austin MacPhee have helped steady the ship at HeartsInterim head coach Jon Daly and assistant coach Austin MacPhee have helped steady the ship at Hearts
Interim head coach Jon Daly and assistant coach Austin MacPhee have helped steady the ship at Hearts

Owner Ann Budge planned to appoint the new man this week and the Evening News has learned that both Daly and Pressley are the two front-runners at the moment. Hartley, Davies and Freedman are also being given due consideration.

Daly has proven his credentials during three games in interim charge and oversaw a creditable 0-0 draw against Rangers at Ibrox on Saturday. That followed last week's 1-0 win at Kilmarnock and the season-opening 4-1 loss at Celtic.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The club's Under-20 coach has galvanised the first team with help from fellow coaches Austin MacPhee and Liam Fox, but has no idea whether he will be given the job long-term. He believes results garnered so far give the Hearts hierarchy time should they wish to mull over their new appointment for longer.

"What it does for the board is it probably gives them more time. We're sitting on four points after three tough away games. A lot of people probably wouldn't have expected us to get anything from these games," Daly told the Evening News.

"I think that gives the board time to make sure they make the right decision. Whether that's bringing someone in from outwith the club, or whether they appoint from within, be it me or someone else, this gives them time to weigh up their options.

"I think it buys them a bit of time in what they need to do so they don't need to rush into any big decisions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"I haven't had an interview but it's clear to see I'm enjoying the role and working at first-team level. I think everyone at the club knows I wouldn't say know if I was asked to do this full-time.

"If they decide to appoint someone from outside, then that's the decision and I'll just get on with things. I'd continue to work with the Under-20s, as I have done until now."