Why Liam Boyce will be a huge miss for Hearts v Greenock Morton

Following last Saturday’s 1-0 loss to Alloa Athletic in the Betfred Cup, Hearts boss Robbie Neilson was just finishing up his post-match press conference, when a question was asked about Liam Boyce.

Liam Boyce is on the bench for Hearts. Picture: SNS

It was a short and sharp exchange, Neilson perhaps caught off guard by asking if he was going to persist with the Northern Irishman.

"He’s a top striker,” was the reply.

Well, Boyce has not made the starting XI with Neilson making three changes from the shock defeat at the Indodrill with Peter Haring and Aidy White also dropping to the bench and Andy Irving, Steven Naismith and Craig Wighton coming into the team.

Fans have questioned the striker’s form and continued selection, perhaps expecting more than the three goals he has scored since October, two of which arrived from the penalty spot.

Expectations may have been as high as a goal per game ratio.

Boyce has been guilty of missing chances, the big one which stands out is the miss at Hampden Park against Hibs in the Scottish Cup semi final. It was not just the fact he missed but how he missed, dragging the ball wide of the target.

There is perhaps a confidence issue at play, strengthened by missing two penalties against Alloa in the Championship. Having been asked to re-take his first one which was saved, the second scudded off the top of the bar and high into the empty Gorgie Stand.

However, Boyce has offered a lot outside the box and in terms of the creativity and the club's build-up.

The 29-year-old has a wonderful technique, balance and touch which allows him to roll defenders and create space for himself. On top of that his vision and passing ability are excellent.

Against Alloa in the league it was his through ball which allowed Andy Halliday to score and he was at it again in the cup, finding the gap to play in Olly Lee who was denied by Neil Parry.

Hearts will face hugely obdurate opposition in Greenock Morton. They will defend deep and compact meaning there will be little space to operate in and no space for Craig Wighton to run into.

Neilson's men will require technicians who can take the ball in tight areas. Players like Boyce who will be missed.