It was a busy transfer window for the Edinburgh side with nine players coming into the club over the summer. Closing the gap on the top three will be the aim for Eva Olid and there is no doubt that their recent signings have been a statement of intent. Now that many of the new faces have had time to adapt to their new surroundings, we feel we can make an accurate prediction on what their best starting line-up looks like.
. GOAL 1-0 Dannielle McGinley of Hearts is congratulated by her team mates after she opens the scoring during the ScottishPower Women's Premier League 1 match between Hearts Women and Dundee Utd Women at the Oriam Sports Performance Centre, Edinburgh, Scotland on 20 August 2023. Picture Malcolm Mackenzie / ScottishPower Women’s Premier League All photo usage must carry mandatory copyright credit (© ScottishPower Women’s Premier League | Malcolm Mackenzie)
Danni Findlay opens the scoring against Dundee United. Credit: (© ScottishPower Women’s Premier League | Malcolm Mackenzie) Photo: Malcolm Mackenzie
. GK - Charlotte Parker-Smith
Parker-Smith is easily one of the best goalkeepers in the league. Her reactions and reflexes are second to none which has helped keep her side in the game on multiple occasions. While Lisa Rodger’s progression is fantastic at the moment, we think Parker-Smith will retain the number-one spot for now. (Photo by Mark Scates / SNS Group) Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group
. RB -Emma Brownlie
Brownlie is a must-starter for Hearts whenever she is fit. The defender can completely lockdown the right flank against some of the best attackers in the league with very few getting past her. Her experience in a young defence is also a vital addition, especially when their backs are up against the wall. Credit: David Mollison Photo: David Mollison
. CB - Carly Girasoli
The first new signing on the list, Girasoli has had a fantastic start to the new campaign. Not only has the 21-year-old seamlessly fit into Hearts’ defence. The centre-back has also goals to the team with Girasoli already netting three times in eight games so far. Image Credit: Colin Poultney/SWPL Photo: Colin Poultney
. CB - Georgia Hunter
The captain is one of Hearts’ most consistent performers. After leading her side to their highest-ever position last season, the 22-year-old did it while keeping one of the best defences in the league. However, new signing Lizzie Waldie is likely to keep the captain on her toes however, with the former Crystal Palace centre-back already starting multiple games so far this season. Credit: David Mollison Photo: David Mollison
9. CAM - Danni Findlay
One of the star performers in the SWPL last season, Findlay has slowly settled back into the capital this season. With two goals to her name already, the attacker will be looking to add more to her tally as the season progresses. Image Credit: Colin Poultney/SWPL Photo: Colin Poultney
10. RW- Katie Lockwood
With the ability to play anywhere up top, Lockwood provides Eva Olid with multiple options when she is on the pitch. Her best performances so far have been found out on the wing with the 25-year-old providing a string of accurate crosses so far this season which has already propped up her assist tally. Credit: David Mollison Photo: David Mollison
11. ST - Kathleen McGovern
The striker has had a fantastic start to life in the Gorgie so far. Five goals in eight games has helped put a clinical edge back into Hearts after a passive season up top last year. Consistency will now be the key for the 21-year-old to ensure her quick start is not just a purple patch. Credit: (© ScottishPower Women’s Premier League | Malcolm Mackenzie) Photo: Malcolm Mackenzie
12. LW - Georgia Timms
Timms had had a sensational start in her new position on the wing. Her raw pace and power alone make her a frightening opponent for any opposing fullback let alone her ability to find the net. Credit: David Mollison Photo: David Mollison