Naismith pairing can thrive at Jambos – Boyce

L I A M Boyce be l ieves he ca n continue to th rive in h is new strike pairing with Hearts captain Steven Naismith.

The pair have each hit two goals in the two matches they have played together, a victory over Rangers and a 3-3 draw with St Johnstone.

January signing Boyce believes they can continue to cause problems for Ladbrokes Premiership defences.

Speaking ahead of tonight’s Tynecastle clash with Kilmarnock, Boyce said: “When I was playing at Burton, we were playing a different formation and there was a bit more pressure on me to hold the ball for longer. People can get toes in and nick it off you.

“But when he is so close to me it’s brilliant, I can do it in one touch and lay it off and keep the moves flowing and driving everyone forward.

“Just having someone with that experience and that quality close to you, I know if I give him the ball any time he is more than likely going to keep it for us.

“I like playing with my back to goal, getting flicked balls and one touch round the corner, that’s how I take advantage of defenders who expect you to hold it up and slow it down and get it wide.

“But when you have got someone who is as smart as he is and can flick the ball into me and play one-twos, it causes other teams a lot of problems.”

The former Ross County forward has also been impressed with Naismith’s influence.

The 28-year-old said: “What I didn’t know before I came was how good he is on the pitch talking to people and helping them through things.

“He will be a great captain for the club.”