Hearts keeper Craig Gordon has been appointed the new captain of the Tynecastle side by manager Robbie Neilson as the former Celtic star replaces Steven Naismith following the ex-Rangers star’s retirement.
Gordon, who was part of Scotland’s squad at Euro 2020, was unveiled this morning as the new Jambos skipper ahead of their return to the Scottish Premiership this season.
“We spoke to the players today and Craig will be the captain for the coming season,” Neilson said as he confirmed Gordon as the Jambos’ new skipper.
“Last season, I thought he did really well. He’s got brilliant experience, great leadership capabilities and he’s played at the highest level for a long, long time.
“Obviously, he came through the Hearts academy system as well. I’m delighted to have him as the captain this season and I’m sure he’ll do well.
“He’s very popular. He leads by example. He’s been over the course in football for a number of years, played at the highest level, played international and still playing international, he went away to the Euros which was great, and we hope he continues to play at that level for us for a number of years.
“I think it’s always good to have the guys further back that can communicate. With Craig and his leadership skills you can see it about the place. He’s a top character and he’s definitely earned the job as captain for the club.”
Scotland star the obvious choice as new Hearts captain
After making his return to Tynecastle last year, Gordon was the obvious choice to succees Naismith as captain this season.
The Scotland international is no stranger to Hearts after coming through the Jambos’ Academy and his time with Sunderland and Celtic – as well as his lengthy Scotland career – gives him a wealth of experience.
Hearts’ return to the Premiership should make for a really interesting season with the Jambos.
While many of their players are well-known to fans across Scotland, it’s quite hard to pinpoint exactly where Hearts should be looking to finish this season.
Top six seems like a fairly obvious suggestion but Neilson’s side can get there, European football would surely also be a possibility for next season – and then Hearts fans’ imaginations will no doubt start to run away with them.
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