Steven Naismith can’t wait for the league season to begin, and targets continued improvement heading into the 2024/25 campaign.
The Jambos lift the curtain on the new William Hill Premiership campaign with a home clash against Rangers, live in front of the Sky Sports cameras.
After a gruelling pre-season program which included a trip to Tenerife and friendlies on both sides of the border, the boss believes the Jambos are in a good place to kick on from last season’s success.
“I think we’re ready. We’ve trained really well this week, we have a very competitive squad, in what is going to be a big season for us,” he told the media ahead of the game.
“It’s a big start for us, a good game to start off with. As the last game of last season showed, it was an entertaining one, so hopefully there’s more of the same tomorrow.
“There were areas we knew we had to strengthen, and with players leaving we had to be ready to move on that, with Alex Cochrane as an example. We’ve gone from having a good squad which, if there are injuries, we’re light, to being in a position where we have quality waiting to come in.
“It’ll be a more competitive league than before. It will be a busy one for us because of our schedule but if we continue to move forward and progress, then we’re doing something right.
“We had a lot of plaudits for last season when we performed well, and we’re looking for more of the same this season.”
Steven was also able to provide positive news on the injury front, with two first teams players back in contention, with another close to making a return to the pitch.
“Kingsley’s trained this week, as has Yutaro. So, they’re fit and available,” he added.
“Beni’s had a bit of swelling at the back of his knee, so he’s had some treatment on that. I’m hoping he can progress his rehab and be on the pitch quite quickly."
Watch Steven Naismith's full press conference on Hearts TV.
