Claudio Braga sent firm Hearts future backing by star who experienced Jambos transfer speculation first-hand
The Portuguese striker has remained at Hearts beyond the summer transfer window.
Claudio Braga has been told he’ll leave Hearts with the best wishes of the club and supporters - as he’s firmly backed after remaining at Tynecastle beyond the summer.
The Portuguese forward was a revelation under Derek McInnes last term as the Jambos narrowly missed out on Premiership glory. He has continued to be a regular for new head coach Wouter Vrancken after the summer passed without him leaving Hearts, despite constant speculation, Braga now forming part of their ranks until the January transfer window at least.
Christophe Berra was happy to see him stay. Asked if he was surprised to still see Braga in a maroon jersey, the former defender said: "Yes and no. He had an incredible season last year, he's a talented player, he's got a lot of really good attributes, and I'm sure there was interest in him during the summer transfer window.
Why Claudio Braga not leave Hearts in the summer transfer window?
“For whatever reason he didn't move, maybe the clubs didn't meet Hearts' expectations, or the player didn't fancy going where maybe he had opportunities to go. I'm sure if he keeps on going the way he's doing, keeps on showing the attitude he does, every game I watch him, he plays with a smile on his face. He works his socks off, he's got a lot of talent there. If he keeps on doing that, his time will come again.”
Berra made a big-money move to Wolves from Hearts before returning to Tynecastle towards the end of his career. He knows first-hand how difficult speculation is to deal with but he’s in no doubt that fans will appreciate his efforts no matter what the long-term future looks like. The 2006 Scottish Cup-winner added: “Yes, it's difficult.
“I was younger, my scenario was different, I came through Hearts when I moved at that time, and my speculation had went over a couple of transfer windows as well. But again, one thing you can't fault Claudio over is his effort and his application. Whoever's watching the game, whether it's a scout or a manager from opposition teams, he always gives 110%.
Claudio Braga at Hearts assessed
“He's not walking about sulking, he's working his socks off. At times things won't go for him, but that's normal for any player. H's never downing tools, he's always 110% for the club since he's come out. He's been very forward with the team as well, the fans, you know he's there, he'll work his socks off. If an opportunity comes, he will listen to it, that is normal.
“Hearts fans will expect him to leave at some point, and when he does go, he will get the best wishes from the Hearts fans, the biggest send-off. It will be disappointing, but he's come and given so much to this club so far, and he's got so much more to give as well.”
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