On Tuesday, October 15, Neil Critchley was appointed as the newest manager of Hearts, following the departure of former head coach Steven Naismith back in September.
Today, we’ll be taking a look at Critchley’s coaching career so far, including his time with Liverpool, Queens Park Rangers and his two separate stints as Blackpool boss.
Critchley penned a post on Hearts’ official website to the fans upon his arrival, which reads: “Hi everybody, I’m delighted to join this fantastic football club. Ahead of Saturday, I wanted to say something directly to you.
“We want you to be excited by the team that you see on the pitch and come to support. We want to be a team that nobody wants to play. When you come to Tynecastle on a Saturday, the feeling should be optimistic and excited to see a team that gives the support reasons to get on their feet. You should be able to see the passion of the support reflected in the team.
“I promise I’ll give this club everything. You very quickly come to understand how much Hearts means to those who care most about it, and how much of a difference it makes to their lives by giving them a successful team. I can’t wait to start this journey, and I’m looking forward to meeting all of the players and getting down to work straight away.”
1. Liverpool
Neil Critchley's coaching career began at Liverpool, following the conclusion of his playing years at the age of just 24. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
2. Liverpool (2)
At Liverpool, Critchley benefitted from working alongside a litany of top coaches. | Liverpool FC via Getty Images
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3. Liverpool (3)
In 2019 and 2020, Critchley managed the Liverpool senior team on a few occasions in Jurgen Klopp's absence. | Getty Images
4. Blackpool
In 2020, Critchley was appointed as Blackpool's head coach, marking his first senior management job in football. | Getty Images