Halkett: Barrie was always
Craig Halkett had a fair idea that Barrie McKay would go on to enjoy a successful playing career after lining up alongside the winger in the Rangers academy.
Now Hearts team-mates, Halkett has hailed the forward’s ability to influence games, and is in no doubt McKay will have a big impact in the team’s bid to flourish at home and in Europe.
McKay has shone since returning to Scotland last September, so much so that before his first season at Tynecastle was even , the club tied him down on an improved three-year deal.
McKay’s skill was encapsulated in a moment of brilliance on the opening day of the Premiership season when he scored a fine solo goal in the win over Ross County.
He will be a marked man in today’s Edinburgh derby, but Halkett insists the 27-year-old has the ability to shake off any unwanted attention
“Technically, Barrie is right up there with the very best I’ve played with,” said Halkett. “He can do stuff with the ball other players can’t do.
“For a forward player, they’re judged on their decision-making and end product. Barrie’s a player who gets his decision right more often than not.
“That’s why he’s been so good for us.
“Last season, it was said that he maybe didn’t score enough goals. But he’s started this season flying and scored on the opening day.
“It’s the other things he does for the team as well. He creates, gets assists, and he moves opposition defenders into places they don’t want to be.