Few people know the talents of Lawrence Shankland better than former boss Robbie Neilson, who signed the striker for both Dundee United and Hearts.
And while Neilson admits the game-changing frontman – who is Hearts’ top scorer this season with 15 goals – will be a huge loss through injury for the next couple of months, he insists it needn’t torpedo the club’s title hopes.
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“I remember watching the Dundee game a couple of months ago where Dundee actually started the game really, really well,” Neilson told the BBC’s Scottish Football podcast.
“They were probably on top and then out of nowhere, Lawrence scored a left-footed shot from about 25 yards, and it changed the game like that. And that’s what Lawrence can do.
“A lot of the games this season it’s been quite tight and then there’s been a moment of magic, most of the time from Lawrence.
“When Hearts attack, a lot of focus goes on him from the opposition, and then it allows someone else to be free. When he’s not there, other teams can then spread that kind of defensive line a little bit.
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“I think he’ll be a big loss.”
Hearts have the chance to go nine points clear of Celtic if they beat Martin O’Neill’s side at Tynecastle on Sunday. Should that happen, Neilson believes it will rule Celtic out of the title running.
“This game at the weekend is massive for both clubs,” he added.
“Massive for Hearts to take that next step but also if Celtic lose that game, the gap is nine points with 15 games to go.
“I’m not sure Hearts will lose another three or four games to allow Celtic to go back in it.
“Celtic would almost have to win 15 games on the bounce and Hearts would need to lose three and I’m not sure Hearts will do that. So I think this game is a real pivotal moment in the season.”
