KIDS FIT RIGHT IN AT JAMBOS
STEVEN NAISMITH insists Hearts’ youngsters can force their way into Robbie Neilson’s thoughts on sheer fitness alone.
The Jambos returned to Oriam to begin their pre-season training as the long build-up to kick-off in the Championship began.
They’ll have Betfred Cup fixtures at the start of October but get down to serious business when title rivals Dundee are in town on the 17th.
Neilson confirmed last week he’s planning to play between 10 and 12 friendlies to make up for the lack of any games since mid-March to ensure his side hit the ground running.
And running was the name of the game as his squad were tested to the limit to determine who had been the ultimate pros over lockdown and who had maybe enjoyed a good time a little too much.
Naisy said: “In terms of being back and being part of the testing, that’s when everything becomes real
“But everybody’s looking forward to being back properly, probably more so than previous years.
“Some boys feel they don’t usually get enough time off, whereas this time we’ve had too much time.
“Every year I say to the young boys that the first indicator is coming back fitter than the rest and that is what the manager will go off to start with. That’ll plant a seed.
“But the majority have come back in good shape and we’ve now got a longer period before competitive football starts, so I’m sure there will be a lot of fitness and tactical work that goes on from now until then.
“As you get older, you look forward to it more. The games come and you appreciate it more. You want to make as many good memories as you can.
“So that’s a personal aim, to make a good start and make it a good, enjoyable one for everybody.”
Ex-skipper Christophe Berra has returned to the fold after spending the second part of last season on loan at Dee.
He said: “Pre-season is really tough. It’s usually a six-week period but we’re a bit longer this year. We’re just desperate to get back.”