Hearts have announced the appointment of controversial ex-Rangers striker Steven Naismith as their permanent manager after a stint as caretaker.
The ex-Ibrox striker, 36, has been appointed as the full-time manager of Hearts ahead of the new campaign after taking over from Robbie Neilson midway through last season.
A former Scotland international striker, Steven Naismith has been handed a two-year deal with the Jambos and it means Rangers fans can expect the former Gers star to be back at Ibrox next season.
Steven Naismith will be joined by Frankie McAvoy and Gordon Forrest as his assistants in the Hearts coaching set-up after guiding the Tynecastle club to a nervy 4th place finish last season.
“We are thrilled to confirm Steven, Frankie and Gordon as our coaching team,” said Hearts CEO Andrew McKinlay.
“We received a number of excellent applications, and, after a robust recruitment process, we believe the three were the best candidates to lead us into next season while sharing our vision for the club’s future.
“Steven is an outstanding young coach with a strong track record of improving players whilst also displaying a commitment to blooding young talent through the ranks.
“Frankie has vast experience from his time coaching on both sides of the border and possesses an impressive track record of developing talent. Gordon, of course, is very familiar with the club already. He’s an outstanding presence on the training pitch and a very gifted coach.
“I’m sure our supporters will join me in congratulating all three and wishing them every success.”
Steven Naismith to return to Rangers – as Hearts manager
Rangers fans once sung the praises of Steven Naismith, who harassed opposition defenders and scored big goals aplenty, winning six major honours in five seasons at Ibrox.
But things turned sour with the now-Hearts boss in the aftermath of 2012, with Rangers fans taking umbrage with comments Steven Naismith and Steven Whittaker made about the Gers being a new club.
Specifically, they said “Rangers Football Club no longer exists in its original form” as they tried to transfer their contracts.
Moving to Everton and the Premier League in the wake of Rangers’ financial collapse, Naismith has since said he regrets the comments which he claims were “wrong” and which were made after bad advice given by his agent.
However, that hasn’t washed with Rangers fans who felt betrayed by one of their key players sticking the boot in during their darkest hour.
The situation continues to taint Steven Naismith’s Ibrox legacy, with the Hearts manager animated on the touchline during a recent clash between the teams at Ibrox.
Rangers midfielder Todd Cantwell and outgoing striker Alfredo Morelos were also quick to give the Jambos boss stick in the match with Naismith’s snarling playing style following him into management.
Naismith is now likely to be back at Ibrox next season prowling the touchline, and we don’t expect Rangers fans will be too pleased to see him either.
