Michael Stewart impressed by what Jamestown isn't ignoring at Hearts as Jambos told to accept brutal challenge
The former Hearts star was in attendance at the club’s latest clash.
Michael Stewart insists it’s only positive for Hearts that Jamestown Analytics aren’t ignoring the domestic market.
The Jambos have used investor Tony Bloom’s recruitment software to unearth hidden gems from around Europe and beyond but players back home aren’t being ignored. Wingers Josh McPake and Calvin Miller have shone since joining from St Johnstone and Falkirk respectively with the latter catching Stewart’s eye midweek. The former Hearts midfielder is enthused by the club continuing to pursue talents on their doorstep.
Stewart, who was on co commentary duty for TNT Sports during Hearts’ 1-1 Conference League draw with Nordsjaelland, said: “He's another one that's been brought in domestically.
Michael Stewart on Hearts transfer business
“I think he is a perfect example of there is talent in Scotland that's capable of stepping up. And with Jamestown Analytics being involved, it's good to see that the domestic market is not being ignored.”
Nordsjaelland was the latest match in a gauntlet of fixtures for Hearts that includes Celtic, Trabzonspor, Motherwell, Rangers, Hibs and Thun, and Stewart insists it’s something they must relish rather than fear. He said: “It's certain key areas that clearly we've been speaking about at length which are the concern.
“In the middle of the park, there are not lots of options, not only just bodies, but different profiles and it's that sort of thing that will be a major issue with regards to being able to maintain the level of performance through a tough period of time.
Michael Stewart on Hearts
“They've also been extremely unfortunate with the way that the league fixtures have been drawn on the back of European games. Celtic twice, Rangers, Motherwell. These are not easy games but they have to just accept the challenge. The strengths and weaknesses of both sides were on show there.
“The crucial moment, and I spoke about it on a number of occasions, unfortunately, it came to pass that it was so. Right before half-time, when Hearts looked like they were going to be able to make it 2-0, it didn't happen, and in the end, they've had to settle for a draw here.
“Wouter Vrancken will be emphasising the positives, definitely. They've shown they're able to compete, they've shown they're capable of hurting a good side, and they're dangerous. It's just a case of really hammering home the ascendancy.”
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