Steven Naismith intends to rotate in some positions over the last three games
Reaching 70 points is Hearts’ stated aim in the final three Premiership games of the season, which begin when Dundee visit Tynecastle Park on Saturday. Head coach Steven Naismith will rotate some players in certain positions against Dundee, then St Mirren next Wednesday, before finishing the campaign at home against Rangers three days later.
The Edinburgh club secured a third-place finish last weekend, and with it guaranteed European league-stage football next term. With that job done and nothing else on the agenda other than aforementioned points issue, there is now a chance to experiment somewhat. Naismith won’t make excessive changes to his side, though.
First, he will reinstate Craig Gordon in goal this weekend. Zander Clark has been the established Hearts No.1 this season despite Gordon returning from a double leg break in January. Both are eager to press their case for inclusion in the Scotland squad for next month’s European Championship in Germany and will be given minutes in the remaining fixtures.
We’ll change goalkeeper tomorrow,” admitted Naismith when asked the question. “I wasn’t going to say that,” he smiled, “but Craigy will play tomorrow. Zander will also play as well at times [in the final three games] It’s a fine balance at times, both of them obviously want to play and go to the Euros. Zander has been the one who has had the jersey because he has been consistent. He’s held it and been a big player for us, but both of them are comfortable with the plan going forward.
“When it looks like you’re going to get third and European group-stage football, you are looking at how to keep the players engaged. We’ve spoken about 70 points and I really think we can get there, which would be a great achievement. The element of achieving what you set out in the summer to get and having that done, I found as a player when there is not that pressure you have freedom to play and it’s enjoyable.
