Derek McInnes' Potential Lineup Adjustments for Hearts vs Livingston Derek McInnes faces the challenge of reshaping his Hearts starting XI for the upcoming match against Livingston, with several players returning from injury and key positions still in flux. The manager has identified nine players who are likely to feature in the squad, provided they are fit and available. This includes the goalkeeper and back four of Alexander Schwolow, Oisin McEntee, Craig Halkett, Stuart Findlay, and Harry Milne, who are expected to start when available. The front three of Lawrence Shankland, Claudio Braga, and Alexandros Kyziridis are also considered stick-ons, while Cammy Devlin, who played every game before his injury, is likely to return to midfield. However, the availability of certain players remains uncertain. Milne is currently unavailable, and Stuart Findlay has only trained once since sustaining a hamstring injury. McInnes has options to address these gaps, including Michael Steinwender and Jamie McCart, who can bolster the defensive line. The left-right balance of the defense may see McCart paired with Halkett, though McCart could still be required at left-back. Stephen Kingsley, who has trained over the past two weeks following a groin injury, is expected to be available for his first start since December 27. McInnes has also considered Jordi Altena as a potential left-back option, particularly after Halkett’s back spasm forced him out of the starting XI. Altena’s versatility was demonstrated in the recent win over Dundee, where he played as a “high 8” in midfield. However, the manager opted against using him at left-back, preferring to maintain the 4-4-2 formation. The right midfield position remains the most uncertain, with no clear starter.#hearts #derek_mcinnnes #livingston #alexander_schwolow #oisin_mcentee
Veteran Coaches Back O'Neill's Bid for Success, Says Goodwin Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has expressed confidence in interim Celtic boss Martin O'Neill, suggesting that older coaches are rooting for the Northern Irishman to prove he can still achieve success in the league. O'Neill, 74, has a storied history with Celtic, having led the club to significant achievements in the early 2000s. This season, he took temporary charge of the team in October after Brendan Rodgers resigned, only to be replaced by Wilfried Nancy, who was later sacked after a challenging spell in charge. O'Neill returned to Parkhead to complete the season alongside Shaun Maloney and Mark Fotheringham. Despite the turbulent campaign, O'Neill's side remains second in the league table, just two points behind leaders Hearts. Goodwin emphasized that age is not a barrier to success, noting that many experienced coaches are cheering O'Neill on to demonstrate their ability to thrive in the modern game. He praised O'Neill's extensive experience and his remarkable success during his first tenure at Celtic, calling him one of the most accomplished managers in the club's modern history. Goodwin also highlighted O'Neill's resilience, pointing to his recent efforts to rescue the team during the season. Dundee United, currently seventh in the league, are aiming to recover from a recent derby defeat against Hearts. Their next fixture is a crucial away match against third-placed Rangers. Goodwin stressed that the focus for his team is on securing points to improve their position, rather than influencing the title race. He acknowledged the pressure on Celtic to challenge Hearts and Rangers but emphasized that Dundee United, as the home team, have confidence from their previous strong performance against Celtic at Tannadice.#martin_oneyll #celtic #jim_goodwin #dundee_united #hearts
