Hearts manager Wouter Vrancken has suggested that new Scotland head coach Sebastian Pocognoli should consider James Wilson, Josh McPake, and Calvin Miller for the upcoming international fixtures. The trio all featured prominently in Hearts' 3-1 derby win against Hibernian at Easter Road, a match Vrancken described as his first Edinburgh derby demolition.
Both Wilson and McPake found the back of the net, while winger Miller continued his recent strong form. Vrancken indicated he might offer a recommendation to Pocognoli, though he also acknowledged that a rest for his players during the international break would be beneficial. Pocognoli, a fellow Belgian, was reportedly in attendance to watch the match.
"The three of them make a good case (for Scotland)," Vrancken stated. "Maybe as a fellow Belgian, I have to give Sebastian a phone call."
Regarding the players' development, Vrancken commented on Wilson, a young player who he feels is physically still developing but is highly coachable and showing increased confidence. He also expressed satisfaction with McPake's progress, noting that the winger has adapted well after an initially challenging start to the season.
Hearts secured a 2-0 lead in the first half with goals from Wilson and Laurent Mendy. Hibernian pulled a goal back early in the second half through Adam Mayor, but their efforts to equalize were hampered when defender Jack Iredale received a second yellow card. McPake then sealed the victory for Hearts with their third goal.
Vrancken praised his team's first-half performance and their ability to regain control after Hibernian's second-half adjustments and the red card. He highlighted the importance of maintaining composure in derby matches and commended the synergy with the home support, which made the atmosphere feel like a home game.
Hearts currently sit third in the Premiership table, three points behind leaders Celtic. Vrancken expressed confidence in the team's potential for further improvement, stating, "We can improve, 100 per cent. There will be ups and downs but we just have to work like this. It’s just starting and we need to keep pushing."
For Hibernian, the loss marked their third consecutive top-flight derby defeat, a streak not seen since 2012. Hibs manager David Gray acknowledged the fans' frustration and took responsibility for the team's performance. He pointed to a poor first half and defensive errors, including those leading to the red card and the third goal conceded, as key factors in the defeat. Despite creating chances, Gray noted the team's struggle to convert opportunities when on top in games, stating, "We gave ourselves too much to do and it was self inflicted."