Tough preparation continues for Hearts’ players ahead of the cup final

Hearts manager Robbie Neilson has insisted that his players are not being given any let up in training as they prepare for The Scottish Cup Final with Rangers on 21 May.

The team secured third spot in the cinch Premiership in the final game before the split with a convincing 3-1 victory over their rivals Hibernian FC, before booking their place in the final the following week with a 2-1 triumph over the same opponents.

It would be fair to say these post-split games mean more to their opponents, who are all fighting for a league title or a European spot, however it is best not to say that to the Hearts boss.

“You can’t have that mentality here,” Neilson said.

“I’ve seen other teams, they go away for a week’s holiday before a Cup Final then they get turned over. For us, we believe we should do things consistently through the season to make sure we perform.

“We have a Cup Final in three weeks, but we still need to work hard and make sure it’s not holiday season until we get there.

“The next two weeks will be quite tough then we’ll play Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday through to the Final.

“We want to drive the squad forward, get work in to the players coming back from injury and make sure we are as prepared as possible for Hampden.”

Hearts picked up three points at Tannadice last Sunday with a depleted squad and Neilson confirmed that those on the treatment table are progressing well with the crucial cup final in mind.

“We need to get them ready. We’re gradually getting them back and they need to be in the best condition for the remaining league games as well as the Final.

“This week, we’ve had Andy Halliday, Stephen Kingsley, Michael Smith, a number of them have been doing extra work. They are all good. Michael’s not quite there but a number will come back in,” he said.

Neilson was nominated for the Scottish Football Writers Association Manager of the Year award alongside his opposite number on Saturday, Ross County manager, Malky McKay.

The Hearts boss admitted he was pleased to see his name mentioned, but was full of praise for Arbroath manager Dick Campbell.

“He loves the game and if you speak to Dick, and I do speak to him every now and again, because we have a player there on loan. Dick is so enthusiastic about the game. He loves football and he has an idea how he wants his team to play and to have that longevity is outstanding.”