Steven Naismith appointed new Hearts captain to replace Christophe Berra - vice-captain also revealed

Manager Daniel Stendel has confirmed his club skipper
Steven Naismith is the new Hearts captainSteven Naismith is the new Hearts captain
Steven Naismith is the new Hearts captain

Hearts have appointed striker Steven Naismith as their new captain in place of Christophe Berra. Manager Daniel Stendel told players on Friday morning that Naismith will take the armband, starting on Saturday against Airdrieonians in the Scottish Cup.

The Scotland internationalist, 33, is fit after a back-related problem and will be a key part of Stendel's plans provided he remains free of injury. His influence in the dressing room has been well-documented and he will now succeed Berra as Hearts' on-field leader. John Souttar will continue as vice-captain.

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"I’m delighted that the manager has decided to make me club captain," Naismith told the Hearts website. "It’s a big thing for me but the bigger thing is that results need to change and change quickly.

"I’ll be proud to lead this team out and with a dressing room full of motivated players, and the tremendous backing from the fans, I’m confident we can turn this situation around and get back to winning games."

Berra was told almost two weeks ago that he is surplus to Stendel's requirements and free to find a new club. He has been training with the reserves at Riccarton whilst Hearts officials try to find him a new team before the January transfer window closes.

Naismith spent 18 months on loan at Tynecastle Park from Norwich City before signing a four-year contract last summer. He has made nine appearances at club level so far this season, scoring two goals.