Hearts boss Robbie Neilson has spoken of an air of negativity surrounding their club in the wake of John Souttar’s pre-contract agreement with Rangers.
Whilst the player remains at Tynecastle for now, a lot could change very soon and reading between the lines of Neilson’s remarks, it appears clear that an early deal is on the cards this month.
The Jambos are at home to St Johnstone on Tuesday evening when it is expected that Scotland international Souttar will get a less than welcoming reception due to the decision that he has made on his future. After Scottish Cup duty at the weekend, Hearts then host Celtic in what could be the final game before the 25-year old makes his big journey westbound along the M8.
As reported by Sky Sports, the manager had his say on the issue, much of which he described as “part and parcel” of football:
🗣️"He's decided to go somewhere else. We're very, very disappointed he's decided to do that."
Robbie Neilson discusses John Souttar's pre-contract agreement with Rangers and says the criticism he has received is "part and parcel of football"👇 pic.twitter.com/WSCYyPmRl6
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) January 17, 2022
On a potential and likely response from Hearts supporters, he admitted:
“I think that is part and parcel of football to be honest. I think the most important thing from the playing staff point of view, everyone involved with the club is about the football club winning. It is about everyone coming together and trying to give the team as much support as possible to get the three points.”
Unavoidable
Neilson stated that he has no issues with Souttar’s immediate future in terms of selecting him and that his attitude has been spot-on in training but the fact is that his decision to sign for Rangers isn’t a leap of faith for the Hearts dressing room, nor togetherness and ‘coming together’ and the supporters will make that clear tomorrow.
As January’s days tick down, expect Rangers and Hearts to enter dialogue to settle this matter early. The Edinburgh club and especially Neilson will not want to weaken their team for the remainder of the season, but if they can secure a decent fee that they wouldn’t otherwise get at the end of the season, it could mean bringing in a replacement for Souttar to bed in before next season, whilst the Gers get to do the same with their new signing.
A very similar situation unfolded this time last year with Scott Wright and Aberdeen – money matters, watch this space.