Webster: Hearts fans must lay off Levein and look to cup semi

● Former Tynecastle defender says support should cut boss some slack given the lengthy injuries to key men he has faced this season

Andy Webster reckons Hearts fans need to focus on driving their side to the Scottish Cup Final rather than criticising manager Craig Levein for his style of play and losing the Edinburgh derby.

The former Tynecastle defender understands supporters’ frustrations after such a bright start to the season but feels they have to be realistic.

Hearts have been hammered by lengthy injuries to key players – Christophe Berra, Steven Naismith, John Souttar and Uche Ikpeazu.

And Webster reckons the Tynecastle fans should not really care how their team play – as long as they beat Inverness on Saturday and reach their 15th cup final.

Webster said: “Criticism is part and parcel of football whether you are a manager or a player. Craig Levein has been there before, so he is experienced enough to handle it.

“I haven’t looked into the criticism too deeply, but I know he has had some and I think it is unfair. The initial part of the season was outstanding and, when that happens, expectations start to rise and people are looking for more.

“But then, when you have injuries to key players like Christophe Berra and Steven Naismith, it’s going to have a major impact on your squad. They are two key figures, so, as much as it’s an opportunity for others to come in, it’s a major disappointment that two of your best players are missing for a period of time. All of these things have to be taken into consideration. I have been there myself. When you start very well, people get excited. But it’s hard to maintain That’s why when you see teams win league titles, they always deserve it because that level of consistency you need to win a league is really hard to achieve.”

The after-effects of a derby defeat are always hard, but