Hearts Plans Official Approach for Kilmarnock Manager Derek McInnes

Hearts Football Club is moving rapidly to appoint Derek McInnes as their new manager following the sacking of Neil Critchley. The club has made a formal approach to Kilmarnock, where McInnes is currently the manager, and talks are ongoing regarding a compensation package reportedly involving a six-figure release clause. McInnes, who played a key role in securing Kilmarnock's Premiership status this season and has a strong track record in Scottish football, including winning the League Cup with Aberdeen, has acknowledged potential contact between clubs but emphasized no official discussions from his perspective yet. Hearts have prioritized a manager with proven Scottish football experience and the willingness to engage with Jamestown Analytics, a tool used by the club's owners to guide decisions. While McInnes remains focused on his current responsibilities at Kilmarnock, the victory that ensured their Premiership survival appears to have catalyzed Hearts' formal pursuit. Should McInnes accept the role, his first game in charge could ironically be against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park at the season's close.