Hearts next manager latest as Tony Bloom's analytics company to be used

Hearts will make use of Tony Bloom's analytics company in their search for a new manager.

The Jambos yesterday sacked Steven Naismith after defeat at St Mirren made it eight losses in a row and nine without a win this season in all competitions. They sit bottom of the Premiership with just one point and it was inevitable the 38-year-old would be relieved of his duties.

Names have already been banded about as potential replacements, some from Scottish football and some from further afield. And Bloom's Jamestown Analytics firm and their data algorithms will be utilised as the Tynecastle club look to identify the right man to take them forward, Football Scotland understands.

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A deal with the Brighton owner is close and that will allow Hearts to use his highly successful analytics for player recruitment after seeing the success it has brought the Seagulls and Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise. It is also used for managers and that will come in handy.

It also means the appointment is likely to come from left-field and someone who has performed well overseas. When Graham Potter left Brighton, they already knew Roberto de Zerbi would be their next boss and likewise with Fabian Hurzeler as the next in line.

In the meantime, B team manager Liam Fox will lead the side as interim boss for this Saturday's home game against Ross County and likely the Europa Conference League clash with Dinamo Minsk in Azerbaijan and Aberdeen away. There is then an international break which would seem a good chance to make an appointment.

In a statement yesterday, CEO Andrew McKinlay said: “I’d like to firstly thank Steven, Gordon (Forrest) and Frankie (McAvoy) for all their efforts over the past year and a half. They worked tirelessly in their roles and without them we would not have enjoyed the successes of last season.

“However, things can change quickly, particularly in football, and it has been clear for all to see that things are not working this season. Results and performances have fallen below the standards expected at this football club and, unfortunately, there is little evidence of any potential upturn in fortunes.

"With our UEFA Conference League campaign about to commence, and the spotlight on our league position, we cannot afford to stand still. That is why we, as a Board of Directors, have made the difficult decision to part ways with the management team, who go with our thanks and best wishes.

"We will update supporters shortly about next steps in both the short and long term but for now, the club shall be making no further comment at this time.”