Darren Murray was big influence

RYAN McGOWAN singled out Darren Murray as the biggest influence on his career so far and insisted that Hearts will survive their current financial difficulties as long as the player development manager is still churning young talent out of Riccarton.

The Australian said: “So many people did so much for me, but if I had to single out one person, it would be Darren Murray. I worked with him right from the start and he did so much for me. He helped keep my head up when things weren’t going so well and he’s a brilliant coach.

“You only have to look at all the boys that are coming through to the first team just now. All these boys have benefited from working with Darren. I’ve got no doubts that Hearts can stay competitive in the SPL with these boys as long, as they can keep a few of the experienced boys to help them along.

“Although Tynecastle can be intimidating for the away team, it can also be intimidating for Hearts players when things are not going so well, so the fans will have to be patient. The young boys will have bad games and will make mistakes, but it’s important that they’re given time to learn from their mistakes.”

Darren Murray was big influence - Ryan McGowan