The scenario Hearts would take in Copenhagen as Craig Halkett aims to banish horrible memories
The Conference League match on Thursday is crucial in a number of ways.
Craig Halkett’s experiences in Europe have been very awful. The Hearts defender hasn’t played in the UEFA Conference League this season since hobbling off hurt at St Gallen and Riga two years ago. Naturally, he is looking forward to a better few days as he travels to Denmark on Wednesday.
With Frankie Kent recovering from a quad muscle injury, he made a comeback to the starting lineup for Saturday’s 2-0 Premiership victory over Dundee. Halkett’s role against FC Copenhagen on Thursday will be greatly influenced by Kent’s level of fitness.
Given that Hearts came out of Pot 4 in the Conference League draw and Copenhagen is in Pot 1, the player admitted, “It’s probably going to be one of the toughest challenges we’ve faced this year.” They are undoubtedly a major club and team in Europe. Most people, I believe, would recognise them. We’re looking forward to the task, of course. Everyone, in my opinion, aspires to compete at the greatest level and challenge themselves against the best teams and opponents. We’re all looking forward to the game, even if it will be challenging.
In related news
Lawrence Shankland to Rangers transfer twist as ‘amazing’ verdict shared
Derek Ferguson cautioned Rangers against a possible bid for Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland, saying it is “amazing” how rapidly football can change.
Shankland, who recently acknowledged that he will leave Tynecastle when his contract ends next summer, has been frequently linked to the Gers.
To strengthen their assault, pundit Ross McCormack thinks the Gers should try to sign the forward as early as January [Open Goal, 26 November].
When asked if he agreed with that sentiment, Ferguson said that, considering Shankland’s poor performance this season, Rangers would be better off searching elsewhere.
Ferguson told Ibrox News, “I was among those who called for Rangers to get Shankland through the door at the beginning of the season.” However, I’ve watched him live a few times during this campaign, and his body language hasn’t been that good.
He is currently having a lot of difficulties and lacks confidence. From the interviews I’ve watched, he appears like a self-assured young man, but the results speak for themselves. He is currently not scoring goals, despite being paid to do so.
That only raises a small amount of scepticism. The speed at which things can change in football is astounding. I would have definitely had him at the club three months ago. It’s in the balance now.
“Although he is still a good player with captain experience and a good age, his current style of play and body language raise some concerns.”
How many goals does Lawrence Shankland have for Hearts?
Since moving from Belgian team Beerschot to Hearts in 2022, Shankland has made 166 appearances and scored 62 goals.
The 29-year-old finished first in the goalscoring charts last season after scoring 21 of those goals in the Scottish Premiership.
It’s no surprise that so many people were demanding that he move to Ibrox, but three goals in 16 league games this season is incredibly disappointing.
In many respects, signing him would be risk-free, particularly if a deal is reached in the summer when he is a free agent, but it could be wiser to look elsewhere.
