Only a few weeks remain until new midfielders arrive at Riccarton, and Denholm is well aware of the urgency of leaving his mark before the following campaign. The 20-year-old knows there is still more work to be done because third place in the Premiership is still up for grabs.
“Obviously, players will be added, but that’s how football works. Competition will always exist,” he stated. “I have to really secure that place and put my stamp down in the next few games.” I can then demonstrate my abilities to the fans. There have, in my opinion, been hints of it. I doubt that I’ve shown my true self yet but I’m getting there.
“I need to give myself a lot of attention. I’ve showed in flashes what I’m capable of, so it’s about being given another chance. It’s about seizing the opportunity if we can finish in third and I realise it. Competition may arise from new players, but that has always been the case during my career. It was competitive to get a part-time contract here. Released and returning, all you have to do is perform well mental fortitude. I believe I’ve conveyed that. All I have to do right now is rejoin the team and get to work.
He grinned and said, “I keep saying this and I’m going to keep saying it: People forget it’s actually my first season.” “I wish to acquire as many games as possible. I hope to win third place and have a great time as a Hearts supporter. Kilmarnock is a difficult area to visit, so Saturday’s point there might end up being quite good.
Denholm is pleased that he was able to play in midfield with fellow Riccarton youth academy alum Macaulay Tait during the latter minutes of Kilmarnock’s 0-0 draw. Hearts want to do better at developing players internally, as Naismith has repeatedly said in public. We have great expectations for two products: Denholm and Tait.
After a commanding display, Hearts were a little let down by their one-point defeat at Rugby Park. Even though the Edinburgh club is currently 11 points ahead, Kilmarnock is the only team that might theoretically defeat them to third place has twelve games remaining.
“If I didn’t mention him, he would be furious: [Jorge] Granty had a chance, Kenny Vargas had one, Shanks [Lawrence Shankland], and Cammy [Devlin] hit the bar.” We’ve played well overall, even though it’s unfortunate not to score. The final point was a solid one.