McInnes Addresses Hearts’ Setback and Future Aspirations

Derek McInnes recognizes that his Hearts squad is not Barcelona, but he understands what is required for his team to maintain a challenge for the Scottish Premiership title.

Following a chaotic 3-2 derby defeat at the hands of Hibernian, the leaders experienced just their second league loss of the season in 19 matches. Despite a spirited attempt at a comeback, McInnes expressed disappointment with his players for failing to execute the fundamentals effectively, leading to a three-goal deficit at Easter Road on Saturday.

The Hearts manager emphasized that the team must take ownership of the “sore” defeat in Leith, but he is determined not to lose sight of their overall capabilities. “We reached the top of the league not by emulating Barcelona or being something we’re not, but by excelling at the basics in our games,” the 54-year-old coach stated to BBC Scotland.

“If we neglect the basics, no amount of skill or successful streak can prevent us from suffering a defeat. In the second half, we showcased a performance more aligned with our usual standards. If we maintain a record of two defeats out of the next 19, we will have had an extraordinary season. We are not going to lose our focus now; we understand the reasons behind this loss.”

The defeat allowed Celtic to reduce the gap at the top of the table to just three points following their own chaotic victory against Livingston. Wilfried Nancy’s team holds a game in hand and could potentially leapfrog Hearts on goal difference by the time they play again on January 3.

However, McInnes is confident that his players will not be deterred by the loss to their city rivals. With a more favorable fixture list approaching, Hearts will enjoy a week off before facing bottom-placed Livingston. Subsequent matches include an away game against Dundee and a home clash with St Mirren.

Positive outcomes in these matches would position McInnes’ squad favorably ahead of a highly anticipated encounter with Celtic at Tynecastle at the end of January. “Losing a derby is never ideal, and we are disappointed for our fans,” McInnes remarked. “Yet, we will not allow this defeat to unsettle us as we look forward to upcoming fixtures. I have great trust in these players who have earned significant credit from me, but we must honestly acknowledge that we made things more difficult for ourselves today.”

McInnes also anticipates bolstering the squad with winter signings. Kazakhstan winger Islam Chesnokov is expected to join the team in the coming days, and the head coach is hopeful for “some good news” regarding one or two additional signings.

“We aim to equip ourselves as effectively as possible,” McInnes added. “Expectations have risen. As I mentioned when I first took charge, our goal was to meet the supporters’ expectations, and ideally, exceed them. With those expectations now placed upon us, we must continue our diligent work to achieve success.”