The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Archibald backs former boss to turn Hearts around
Partick Thistle boss Alan Archibald reckons his old manager Craig Levein is the perfect man to lead Hearts through stormy waters.
Archibald was still on Dundee United’s books when Levein took up the reins at Tannadice in 2006 and saw first hand the attention to detail that eventually took his boss to the Scotland job.
Levein has now returned to management after a three-year spell as the Jambos’ director of football and will lead his side to Firhill to face Archibald’s team tomorrow.
The Jags boss believes there is plenty of quality on offer despite the Tynecastle men’s troubled start to the campaign, and says Levein is the man for the job.
“I played under Craig for a spell so I know what he’s like and how prepared he will be,” said Archibald. “His planning is always meticulous and so well-organised.
“I wasn’t surprised to see him back in the dugout. Once you’ve done the job I don’t think it ever leaves you and there’s always a desire to get back to it.
“He will make Hearts a bit harder to beat. They needed the ship steadied a bit after a turbulent few months. Craig is still a very good manager and he will make them organised first and foremost.
“It’s been a difficult period for Hearts but most people in football are well aware they still have a very good squad.”