Craig Gordon reckons there was a lot of false bravado flying around in Saturday’s Edinburgh derby dust-up. But the Hearts skipper insists there’s nothing pretend about Steven Naismith’s claim for the Tynecastle throne.
The Jambos skipper is absolutely convinced Naismith is cut out for the rough and tumble of top level management. Having spent 16 years together in the Scotland ranks and the last three as colleagues in Gorgie, Gordon never needed any proof that Naisy was head strong enough to handle a Premiership top job.
However, after seeing the 36-year-old handle seven weeks of adversity to steady the ship he’s as convinced as ever the rookie interim boss is ready to become permanent manager. Record Sport revealed yesterday the former Rangers and Everton striker is edging towards being named Robbie Neilson’s successor. And anyone wondering if he had the backing of the coaching staff and players in Gorgie only had to witness the incredible scenes at the end of the Hibs draw as fists flew - along with hot water bottles and insults. Gordon, who emerged from behind the dug out to help restore peace, said: “I don’t know what was going on - I think everybody was trying to hold everybody else back.
