Hearts boss Naisy identifies way to win at Ibrox
Hearts head coach Steven Naismith is confident his team can cause Rangers problems in this afternoon’s Premiership first versus third match-up at Ibrox.
To do so, they must be near-perfect in a number of areas. Naismith explained Hearts’ priorities to the Edinburgh News as they try to extend an outstanding run of 12 games without defeat in all competitions.
“Out of possession, you need to be organised and disciplined,” he stressed. “You have to recognise their threats, know when we can do what we’ve worked on in training and when we need to accept that we’ve got to suffer. That’s one part of it.
“Then, in possession, you must be able to have the ball and make five or 10 passes rather than make two passes and give it away – or two passes and hit a shot which has a 10 per cent chance of becoming a goal.
Those are the things that need to be on point for you to compete in games against the Old Firm.”
Players with good ball retention will be heavily in the coach’s thoughts when he names his starting lineup, as will those with good energy levels.
“We also need to have legs in the team to get about the park,” he said.
“You need a balance of guys who are threatening and attack-minded, as well as guys who are willing to cover and be a bit more defensive. In general, something for us to be better at is being comfortable on the ball. It doesn’t matter if you are a centre-back, a full-back or an attacker, we need to get to the point where everybody is comfortable with the ball.”
Naismith reported that the mindset within the group is strong and focused, with nobody getting carried away despite the recent impressive run. “No, everybody is on the same page. Nothing has really changed. The noise outside is what it is,” said Naismith.
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