6 days ago
Derek McInnes names the Hearts star he's admired from afar as Hibs fired firm derby warning
Neil Critchely failed to get one over the Hibees with the Jambos winning just once in the last eight capital showdowns
Derek McInnes wants Hearts to be capital top dogs again and rip up the woeful recent derby record against Hibs.
Former boss Neil Critchley failed to get one over the city rivals in three attempts last term – and the Jambos have won just once in the last eight showdowns.
And, as a point of principle, new manager McInnes is determined to put the record straight.
He said: 'The derby is obviously an attraction for any Hearts manager, the atmosphere and the whole intensity.
"I'm looking forward to all the games, but the derbies are massive, I've attended loads over the years.
'And you get it, you know how important it is, and I also know how important it is for a manager to win these games as well.
'I'm looking forward to getting started and playing any team, but the Hibs games have got a bit more on it.
"For the players, myself and the supporters, it's the games that we'll probably look for first when the fixtures come out.'
McInnes has already got to work with deals agreed with midfielder Christian Borchgrevink, winger Alexandros Kyziridis and striker Elton Kabangu.
The Jambos are also poised to sign Walsall midfielder Oisin McEntee.
But the 53-year-old is looking forward to working with James Wilson, after the teenage striker's displays caught his eye when he was Killie boss.
The new gaffer said: 'He's one of a few from the academy products that have come through. Credit to Naisy and Neil who played him.
'I remember a closed-door game against Naisy's team at Rugby Park a while back, the boy came on and I liked him right away.
'He's proven he's a good footballer and knows his way to goal. One of the boys who has a lot to offer.'
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