Rangers manager Derek McInnes admits feeling guilt about departing Hearts for Ibrox during the summer and accepts that he will likely face a hostile reception when he returns to Tynecastle on Wednesday. Despite coming within minutes of securing Hearts’ first top-flight title in 66 years before losing out to Celtic on the final day, McInnes expressed pride in his achievements at the Edinburgh club.
Reflecting on His Time at Tynecastle
McInnes stated that he loved his short time at Hearts and believes the team was a breath of fresh air for Scottish football last season, managing to compete without the financial resources of the Old Firm. He noted that taking a squad from the bottom six to 80 points left him feeling a real sense of injustice at the campaign’s conclusion. Although he hopes for mutual acknowledgment from the supporters, he acknowledges that a warm welcome is unlikely.
According to McInnes, the squad felt as though they were in mourning after missing out on the championship on the final day following a 3-1 defeat at Celtic Park. He mentioned that the group was clinging together during the early close season when they should have stayed united, which is why he feels guilt over having to make a decision about his future.
Understanding the Fans’ Reaction
McInnes compared his exit to how he felt when captain and leading scorer Lawrence Shankland announced his move to Ibrox shortly before, noting that he felt let down and flat at the time. Having made a similar move just weeks later, he understands the supporters’ reaction and believes the treatment he receives is simply what it is.
The Rangers manager maintains that a few contentious decisions prevented his former side from claiming the title, adding that he wanted to be a manager who triumphed outside of the Old Firm. Meanwhile, he considers Hearts to be genuine title contenders in the current campaign under the guidance of new head coach Wouter Vrancken.
