Islam Chesnokov prediction made ahead of Hearts arrival as attacker told transfer has trailblazing potential
The attacker will become part of Hearts plans in terms of first team action from January.
Kazakhstan manager Talgat Baysufinov reckons Islam Chesnokov is bound to be a major Hearts success after the attacker scooped an award on home soil.
The incoming winger has been named 'Forward of the Year’ after his form for his national team and FC Tobol, earning the achievement at the Kazakhstan Football Federation's annual awards. Chesnokov has signed a pre-contract with Hearts and will be eligible for action from January.
Baysufinov has been left made up for the 26-year-old and admits he didn’t need to hold a summit with the Hearts-bound talent over moving to Gorgie, with Chesnokov’s ambition crystal clear. He believes the attacker will come in and install himself as a Tynecastle starter, with the move a shining example for aspiring youngsters.
Islam Chesnokov verdict ahead of Hearts transfer
He said: “Islam Chesnokov's transfer is an excellent example for the younger generation and this move will also have a positive effect on all of Kazakhstan's football. Yes, I think he will play every week for Hearts.
“Islam isn't afraid of challenges and he's comfortable in a team environment. So I think he'll be able to adapt to this different type of football in Scotland. And apart from his technical abilities, he also has a very high work ethic. I didn't speak to Islam about the transfer in the last international camp because there was no need.
“He has a clear vision of how he needs to grow and improve and he has already proved himself with Tobol and the Kazakhstan national team. Islam is very professional and his transfer is great news for football in Kazakhstan and an example for young players because it shows what can be achieved when you work hard.”
Derek McInnes on Islam Chesnokov at Hearts
Speaking on the attacker this week, Hearts boss Derek McInnes said: “We're still going through the whole visa process. It's still good communication and good conversations between [sporting director] Graeme Jones and Will [Lancefield, head of recruitment] really over the last few days.
“We're trying to make sure we get everything in place before the holiday season and sometimes they obviously shut down. But the plan is still to get him into the country and settle in the next week or so. If he's allowed to train and allowed to be in the country, of course, we'll look to get him across.
“He's had a long season, including international breaks with his country. I think that mental and physical shutdown is good for him. He's not going away on vacation or anything, he's staying at home, but we can pick up his work quite quickly. We would like to get him integrated in the squad.”