Neil Critchley insists he is prepared for the demand for success that comes with the territory at Tynecastle, as he prepares for his first match in charge.
Winless Hearts are bottom of the Scottish Premiership, and while Critchley says it will take time for the players to adjust to his tactics, he says he will demand “commitment and passion” from his squad.
“I think it’s quite normal at any big football club that’s underachieving, it’s normal there is an expectation and it’s one I’m comfortable with,” Critchley said.
“The immediate focus is to win football games, to get off the bottom of the Premiership, that’s our expectation.
“What I can control are the things we’re working on on the training pitch every day that give us the best chance of deciding the outcome of the game. That’s what I’ve been focusing on this week with the players.
“Of course it’s going to take some time to get to the team I want us to be in the future, but the things that a Hearts team can be – hard work, effort, commitment, passion – those are things in our control. The tactical side is going to take a little bit longer.”
Critchley succeeded Steven Naismith as head coach earlier this week, and candidly admitted this is the biggest job he has had in football, having previously managed Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers.
“This is the biggest football club I’ve been at without a shadow of a doubt when managing,” he added. “You feel it, but what I have felt is a genuine compassion towards me and people really wanting me to do well because that means the club does well.
“I’ve had a fantastic week, I’ve really enjoyed it and I hope it gets capped off with a performance and three points, and we feel the Tynecastle atmosphere tomorrow.”
