Ex-Hibs ace opens up on free agency wilderness after Norwich transfer as next Hearts manager assumption stated

Hearts’ eight-match winless start to the new Scottish Premiership season continued in an eventful 3-2 defeat to high-flying Aberdeen.

The defeat opened up a 19-point gap between Aberdeen and a Hearts team, who strolled comfortably to a third place finish last term. Hearts had some encouraging spells during the defeat, but were ultimately left to rue a number of missed opportunities in front of goal, along with Jorge Grant’s red card, which proved to be a turning point in the contest.

They enter the international break with plenty to ponder as the hunt for a manager continues to take centre stage. Meanwhile, Hibs head coach David Gray finds himself lamenting a disappointing 2-1 defeat at home to Motherwell.

Hibs and Hearts currently occupy two of the bottom three spaces in the league after a tough start. As we head into the international break, the Edinburgh Evening News takes a look at the main talking points from the capital.

Norwich City secure signing of former Hibs ace

Championship promotion hopefuls Norwich City have provided former Hibs attacking midfielder Emiliano Marcondes what he needs after time in free agency.

The 29-year-old scored three goals in 15 appearances during a loan spell from Bournemouth last season before being released in June. Marcondes has signed a one-year-contract at Carrow Road and is targeting Championship promotion for the third time after play-off success at Brentford in 2021 and automatic promotion with Bournemouth in 2022.

The Danish midfielder said of his time in free agency and move to Norwich: “Playing over 100 games in the Championship can definitely help. I know the league. I know how tough it is. How many games it is and how difficult it is. I have had two promotions and I am just excited to play with a different group, different stadium, it’s all just very exciting for me.”

Billy Dodds comments on Hearts manager situation

Former Dundee and Rangers forward Billy Dodds reckons Hearts will go foreign in their hunt for a new leader. Liam Fox is currently the interim head coach, having managed the Hearts ‘B’ team.

Commenting on the situation, Dodds explained on Sportsound: "You would never rule anything out. By all accounts, they are looking down the foreign route. Maybe Liam Fox is thinking a bit of longevity as you don't get long in this game as we all know."