A little over three-and-a-half years after leaving Hearts to join MK Dons, Robbie Neilson was confirmed as the club’s new head coach on Sunday replacing Daniel Stendel. During the intertwining period plenty has happened.
Neilson has been down to England, back up and led Dundee United into the Premiership. For Hearts it has been a story of regression. When he left the club sat second in the top-flight. Three-and-a-half seasons and three managers later, the club find themselves staring at least a campaign in the Championship.
Click and scroll through to remember the key moments from Neilson’s previous time in charge at Hearts.
13. Euro return
A 0-0 draw with Inverness CT in the Highlands secured Hearts a European spot. It was the first time in four years they would enter continental competition, since drawing with Liverpool at Anfield. Photo: SNS Group Ross Parker
14. Transfer business
After two summers of relative success in the transfer window, the club were unable to carry that on. The one which will be remembered by many fans is the signing of Conor Sammon on a three-year deal. The rangy striker was played wide at times. Photo: SNS Group Ross Parker
15. Euro heartbreak
The club’s return to European competition was short-lived. After getting past Estonian side Infonet Tallinn, Hearts fell to Maltese outfit Birkirkara. A dreary 0-0 in Malta was followed by a 2-1 defeat at a very angry and hostile Tynecastle. Photo: SNS Group Craig Williamson
16. Booed at ICT
Despite a solid start to the league season, there was increasing criticism of Neilson amongst the Hearts support. In Inverness, during a 3-3 draw with the Highlanders, the head coach went to collect a loose ball and was booed by some in the away support. Photo: SNS Group Paul Devlin