Football Season Guide

Hearts began last campaign well and looked set for a 3rd place finish. But injuries in key areas saw the team collapse and they went on a poor run in the 2nd half of the season. Lack of squad depth in midfield caused major issues. Mid-season managerial change helped team improve a little. Limited changes made over close season so far. A handful of new signings help to boost squad depth a little but midfield is still very light on cover. Squad players departing make little difference but Ginnelly is a big loss. Return of long-term injured midfielder Baningime provides a boost. Team is looking a little weak so far. Pre-season results have been disappointing and a lack of transfer action is slowing down preparations. Team needs to bulk up quickly to manage a packed early fixture list. Squad contains some talented wide players. The likes of Cochrane, Forrest and Kingsley all offer something different. In the middle, Shankland is a huge goal threat. Aside from general squad weakness, the team lacks strength in defence. Halkett is ageing and the likes of Rowles and Atkinson are somewhat inconsistent.