Hearts defender Jamie McCart insists his friendship with Hibs centre-back Jason Kerr remains strong, despite the pair preparing to face each other in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final at Hampden on Sunday. McCart, who played alongside Kerr during St Johnstone's 2021 cup double, described him as a "good friend" and a "really good player" who has "done well for Hibs".
St Johnstone bond
McCart and Kerr were part of the St Johnstone side that won both the League Cup and Scottish Cup in 2021, a triumph achieved at an empty Hampden due to Covid restrictions. McCart said the memory remains "incredible" and he has shared it with his Hearts teammates.
"I've reiterated that to the boys about my memories in 2021. It's such a good feeling and at the time you maybe don't take in the full extent of it but looking back on it years later, it's just incredible," he said. "Unfortunately I've missed out a few times in cup finals and semi-finals at Hampden, so it's not a nice feeling at all."
Facing a friend
McCart acknowledged the upcoming match will be a tough test, with Kerr having earned respect during his time as a young captain at St Johnstone. "I'd call Jason a good friend. We had a great time playing together and disappointingly he signed for Hibs," McCart said. "The texts have been quiet this week, I wouldn't speak to him. But I'm sure I can give him a handshake and a hug after it, depending on the result."
Hearts have already beaten Hibs 3-1 in the Premiership at Easter Road in September, but McCart is focused on securing more silverware. The club's League Cup drought dates back to 1962, and they last won the Scottish Cup in 2012. "I think it would be brilliant. You can sense that from the fans, how excited they are for it," he added.
Revived role under Vrancken
McCart has become a key figure under manager Wouter Vrancken, having earned 1,627 minutes this season compared to 692 under former boss Derek McInnes. Vrancken told McCart at the start of the season that he was being "too safe", and the 29-year-old has responded well to the Belgian's attacking approach.
"It was just obviously disappointing last season for me and maybe I just feel a wee bit of the scars of that and not being myself," McCart said. "Thankfully, the manager's sat me down and has had a bit of faith in me since and in every game I'm just trying to repay that faith and do well."
With injuries affecting the back line, McCart has been a constant presence, forming a partnership with Malachi Fagan-Walcott. "I think Malachi's been excellent since he came back from injury, you can see he's a really good player. He brings a real calmness to the team as well," McCart said. "It's not been ideal with injuries across the back line this season. It's something I'd always take responsibility for, as someone to communicate and try and organise."
