The excitement is building at Tynecastle Park as Hearts prepare to launch their 2024/25 Scottish Premiership campaign under the guidance of new head coach Derek McInnes. With a revamped squad and fresh tactical approach, the Jambos are aiming to reclaim their spot among Scotland’s elite. Here’s Crickex comprehensive breakdown of their upcoming season, complete with tactical insights and must-watch clashes.
A New Era Begins: McInnes’ First Test Against Aberdeen
Hearts will kick off their season with a high-stakes home fixture against Aberdeen on August 4th, broadcast live on Crickex. This match carries special significance for McInnes, who previously managed the Dons from 2013 to 2021. Tactical analysts predict an intense midfield battle, with Hearts likely to deploy their new 4-2-3-1 formation to counter Aberdeen’s physical style.
August Gauntlet: Crucial Early Season Matches
Following the opener, Hearts face a challenging August schedule:
- August 9: Away at Dundee United’s Tannadice Park
- August 23: Hosting Motherwell at Tynecastle
- August 30: Trip to Livingston’s Almondvale Stadium
Former Scotland international and Crickex pundit Alan Preston notes: “These early fixtures will test Hearts’ squad depth. McInnes needs at least seven points from these matches to build momentum before the Old Firm encounters.”
Edinburgh Derby: Dates to Circle in Red
The capital city clashes always deliver fireworks, and this season’s schedule promises more drama:
- October 4: Hibs visit Tynecastle
- December 27: Away derby at Easter Road (live on Crickex)
- February 11: Final pre-split derby at home
Derby specialist Lawrence Shankland will be crucial in these matches. The striker has scored in four of his last five appearances against Hibs.
Title Contenders Collide: Celtic and Rangers Fixtures
Hearts’ title credentials will face stern examination in these key matches:
- September 13: Away to Rangers at Ibrox
- October 25: Celtic visit Tynecastle
- December 20: Rangers at home
- January 24: Celtic return to Tynecastle
Sports statistician David Wilson tells Crickex: “Hearts took just two points from six Old Firm matches last season. Improving this record is essential for top-four aspirations.”
The Run-In: April Showers Bring May Flowers?
The final stretch could make or break Hearts’ season:
- April 4: Away to Livingston
- April 11: Motherwell at home (final pre-split fixture)
- May 16/17: Season finale
- May 21/24: Potential play-off dates
Tactical Evolution Under McInnes
Early pre-season suggests McInnes is implementing:
- More aggressive pressing in midfield zones
- Overlapping full-backs to create width
- Varied attacking patterns to utilize Shankland’s movement
Former Hearts captain Steven Pressley observes: “The squad appears more balanced than last season. McInnes’ experience in handling pressure situations could be the difference in tight matches.”
Crickex Season Prediction
Considering the fixture list and squad improvements, Hearts should:
- Challenge for European qualification
- Improve their derby record
- Potentially reach a domestic cup final
The Tynecastle faithful will be hoping this marks the beginning of a new golden era under McInnes’ leadership. With several intriguing storylines developing, Crickex will be providing comprehensive coverage throughout the campaign.
