Scottish Premiership returns with McInnes adding new twist to Old Firm rivalry
Quick summary
The Scottish Premiership returns with Derek McInnes taking charge at Hearts, adding a new dimension to the Old Firm rivalry between Celtic and Rangers.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceDerek McInnes has a score to settle with Celtic after swapping Hearts for Rangers, while Motherwell could impress again
Only residents of cloud cuckoo land can hold the firm belief of Scottish football emerging promptly from a summer of discontent. The onset of a new domestic season, ordinarily a cause for excitement, instead gives reason to ponder the grim realities of what came before.
That it is unsurprising there has been no detailed explanation or plan from the Scottish Football Association following a lamentable World Cup does not prevent the scenario from being so deflating. Mike Mulraney, the president, was last seen peeking out from the crowd behind Gianni Infantino and the US president at Trump Tower. Ian Maxwell, the Scottish FA’s chief executive, bemoaned “hysterical commentary” around his country’s World Cup performance during a brief media appearance after Steve Clarke had resigned. These executives had all-but spurted with laughter when it was suggested handing Clarke a four-year contract immediately before Scotland set sail for the United States was perhaps a needless dalliance with risk.
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What happened
As the Scottish Premiership resumes, the focus falls on Derek McInnes's appointment at Hearts and how it could influence the traditional Celtic-Rangers duopoly. The Guardian previews the new season, examining how McInnes's tactical approach and experience could disrupt the established order. Motherwell and other clubs are also assessed as the league prepares to get underway.
Chance analysis
A new manager at Hearts — historically the third force in Scottish football — could indirectly pressure Celtic and Rangers by tightening the gap in the title race or cup competitions. McInnes's track record of competitive, organized sides makes this a credible storyline rather than pure hype. For prediction models, the key variable is whether Hearts can convert McInnes's appointment into consistent points rather than a brief uptick.
Hearts gain a tactical upgrade and morale boost under McInnes, potentially narrowing the gap to Celtic and Rangers in the Scottish Premiership.
Treat Hearts as a more credible challenger to Celtic and Rangers this season under McInnes, especially in cup competitions and head-to-head fixtures.