Derek McInnes Dismisses Rangers Speculation: Hearts' Premiership Charge Demands Full Focus
Hearts manager Derek McInnes addresses Rangers job links while emphasizing his commitment to maintaining the Edinburgh club's Scottish Premiership lead ahead of a crucial clash against Kilmarnock.



McInnes Shuts Down Ibrox Rumors Amid Hearts' Title Push
McInnes has transformed Hearts into early-season contenders
As Hearts FC sit top of the Scottish Premiership with 19 points from seven matches, manager Derek McInnes has brushed aside speculation linking him to Rangers' vacant managerial position:
"When your team delivers results, people talk. But right now, every conversation at Tynecastle is about sustaining this momentum."
Key Factors in Hearts' Strong Start:
- Defensive solidity: Only 4 goals conceded in 7 matches
- Late-game resilience: 3 winning goals scored after 80th minute
- Tactical flexibility: Successful shifts between 4-2-3-1 and 3-5-2 formations
Upcoming Challenges:
- Kilmarnock away (Saturday): McInnes returns to Rugby Park where he achieved European qualification
- Edinburgh derby momentum: Building on Hibernian victory
- October 21 Celtic clash: Potential title six-pointer
Rangers Contrast: | Metric | Hearts | Rangers |
---|---|---|---|
Points | 19 | 8 | |
League Position | 1st | 8th | |
Goals Scored | 15 | 9 |
Manager's Warning:
"At a club like Hearts, one poor result changes narratives. We're working daily to avoid those setbacks," McInnes emphasized, highlighting the importance of Saturday's match against a Kilmarnock side that's taken 10 points from their last five games.
Tactical Preview:
- Key battle: Hearts' midfield trio vs Killie's press
- Injury watch: Two first-team defenders doubtful
- Historical edge: Hearts unbeaten at Rugby Park since 2019
With the Tynecastle faithful dreaming of a first title since 1960, McInnes' ability to maintain focus could define Scotland's most intriguing Premiership campaign in decades.