Amadou Ba-Sy must heed Wouter Vrancken's criticism or he is signing the death card of his Hearts career, according to Ryan Stevenson. The striker was taken off at half-time in Sunday's cup win over Inverness due to his lack of effort, a decision the former Hearts player fully endorsed.
Vrancken's Public Rebuke
Stevenson praised Vrancken for publicly calling out the big French striker, saying the manager's comments were spot on. He argued that players have a responsibility to work hard regardless of the opposition, especially with nearly 20,000 fans inside Tynecastle who have paid good money to watch them.
Drawing on his own experience, Stevenson recalled teammates like David Obua whose negative body language frustrated him. He noted that managers typically give players two or three chances, so Ba-Sy's first chance has now gone.
Opportunity for Wilson
Stevenson highlighted James Wilson, who replaced Ba-Sy against Inverness and scored a late goal. The teenager, back from a loan spell at Spurs, looked lively and worked hard, earning his reward. Despite criticism from Derek McInnes over the move, Stevenson believes it was an opportunity that couldn't be passed up, with training alongside top players at Spurs beneficial.
Hearts' Euro Hopes
Stevenson acknowledged the team's recent form, with wins over Dundee United and Inverness plus an impressive draw with Benfica. However, he warned of defensive frailties after conceding two goals to Inverness, ahead of facing Rapid Vienna, who just won 8-0 in the Austrian Bundesliga. With Hearts eliminated from the Champions League and Europa League, this is a last chance for European progression.
