Must Read: The strongest Hearts squad roster in years with three players at each position.

Riccarton’s management team has plenty of options.

As Hearts prepare to build their team for the 2024/25 season, the quantity of possibilities in each position is arguably higher than it has been in many years. According to team analysis, head coach Steven Naismith currently has three players to pick from in each position.

Naismith prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation, however he will occasionally switch to 3-5-2 depending on the opponent. Based on the 4-2-3-1 study, he could currently deploy three distinct teams. Many of his predecessors did not have this luxury, and he hopes to take Hearts to the next level.

Last season, Tynecastle finished third in the Premiership, securing European league-stage action. They also advanced to the semi-finals of both national cup tournaments and will look to build on that record this season by winning silverware.

Naismith will evaluate every player available to him over the next several weeks, with pre-season friendlies on the horizon, and will face the tough task of attempting to keep everyone happy. One or two players are expected to move on to ensure regular game time. For the time being, here’s a breakdown of Hearts’ options in each part of the pitch, with several players capable of playing multiple roles:

1. Goalkeeper:

There are three options: Craig Gordon, Zander Clark, and Ryan Fulton. All three are used to being first choice at the club level and have extensive experience. Gordon is working hard to reclaim the No. 1 spot at Hearts ahead of Clark this summer. Few individuals would bet against his success. SNS Group.

2. Right-back:

There are three options: Gerald Taylor, Daniel Oyegoke, and Nathaniel Atkinson. Taylor’s signing from Deportivo Saprissa is subject to a UK visa, and he is presently competing in the Copa America with Costa Rica. That means Oyegoke, who joined from Brentford last month, has a chance to seal the job before the season begins. Atkinson’s days at Tynecastle appear numbered, but he is not a bad third option to keep around. | SNS Group.

3. Right centre-back:

Three options: Frankie Kent, Craig Halkett, and Toby Sibbick. Kent is the man in charge following a spectacular maiden season in maroon last year. Halkett is a regular when fit, and he hopes to run without injury after 18 months of fitness concerns. Sibbick is versatile, but he may have to relocate if he wants to play frequently. SNS Group.

4. Left centre-back:

There are three options: Stephen Kingsley, Kye Rowles, and Lewis Neilson. Last season, Kingsley played more central defence than his usual left-back position and was one of Hearts’ top performers. Rowles is an accomplished internationalist who is left-footed and generally stable. Neilson is back following a loan at Partick Thistle and can play in central defender, full-back, or midfield. | SNS Group.