Michael Stewart names Hearts summer signing who showed his potential with 'wonderful' moment vs Stenhousemuir
Hearts were impressive last Friday night against Stenhousemuir.
Michael Stewart senses Hearts are beginning to develop into a force to be reckoned with under Wouter Vrancken - as he hailed summer signing JJ Williams.
The former Jambos and Hibs midfielder was at Ochilview on Friday where Williams, Rogers Mato and Yan Dhanda goals sealed a Premier Sports Cup quarter final win over Stenhousemuir. Stewart then picked out an Edinburgh Derby between his old sides over Halloween weekend as they get set to contest a huge semi final for the chance to face Rangers or Aberdeen in the final.
Williams’ goal was impressive but Stewart was just as impressed by the summer signing from Rhode Island’s assist for Dhanda when heading back across goal, while still in the air. Vrancken’s start to life at Hearts began with criticism after defeats versus Sturm Graz, Benfica and Aberdeen. They are now unbeaten in nine and Stewart senses momentum building.
What Hearts signing impressed Michael Stewart vs Stenhousemuir?
Speaking after working as co-commentator for the League Cup sponsor on Friday night, Stewart said: “The team for the capital were very good in what could have been an extremely difficult tie. They approached it very well. The manager spoke about no excuses. I don't think they can come away from this with anything other than a feeling of real accomplishment. They approached it perfectly and the end result was reflective in what was a very good performance.
“I think what he's got now is a sight of a few players that he probably feels he can trust a little bit more. Guys that are showing their worth. He knows his strongest XI is starting to take shape. The squad is looking stronger and it looks like there's healthy competition in there as well. JJ Williams is clearly a different type from what Hearts have got as a number nine.
“I think when you look at the rest of the team, somebody like him probably balances it out quite well. He showed his qualities. It’s a wonderful header. Good awareness and he's got great spring. It's like he's hanging in the air here once he gets up.
Michael Stewart on Hearts
“Really good awareness to knock that right back into the path of Yan Dhanda and it's a smart finish, 3-0, and there's a lot to be positive and happy about for Hearts.
“It was a very tough start to the campaign. Not everybody was fit. Still some players coming in. All the trauma of last season, changing the way that they're playing as well. Some difficult results. You think after the Benfica game away from home, he needed to start getting some results and he certainly has. Now it's nine unbeaten, things are moving in the right direction.”