Derek McInnes’ Hearts message revealed by Craig Gordon.

Derek McInnes has been contacting his new Heart of Midlothian team on an individual basis in recent weeks, engaging with players over the phone while on vacation in the US.

According to one player, there has been a recurring motif. One of enthusiasm and optimism. While Kenneth Vargas revealed that he had met with his new manager and was expected to be part of his plans, teammate Craig Gordon remarked about McInnes’ viewpoint. The custodian, who will mark his testimonial this season, beginning with a pre-season friendly against old club Sunderland, stated that he has spoken with teammates who had similar feedback from the early chats.

McInnes is the next manager for whom Gordon will play throughout his two periods at Tynecastle Park, ushering in an exciting new era. “I chatted with him last week. “He called me from his vacation and is very excited,” Gordon explained. “He’s quite eager to get in and start. I chatted with a couple other guys as well, and that’s what came through: how eager he is to get in and get things in order right away. “That optimistic attitude that he has already instilled in everyone has revived them. We’re going to work hard and prepare for the season. I think everyone is excited to get started right now.”

McInnes was named as Hearts’ head coach last month, succeeding Neil Critchley and signing a four-year contract. Hearts will resume to pre-season next week before heading to Spain for a week-long training camp before the Premier Sports group stage begins on July 12, when Dunfermline Athletic will visit Tynecastle. Gordon recently signed a new one-year contract, and the preseason friendly against Sunderland will take place the week before the season begins. Tickets for the Craig Gordon Testimonial Match – Hearts v Sunderland, Tynecastle Park, 3pm, Saturday 26th July – are now on sale at heartsfc.co.uk

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