Former skipper Christophe Berra is convinced "incredible" Hearts can hold their nerve during the run-in and complete the biggest title upset of the modern era. Following Celtic's win at Aberdeen on Wednesday night, Hearts are five points clear of the defending champions and six above Rangers with nine games remaining. "I think the pressure will be on now," Berra told BBC Scotland.
Former skipper Christophe Berra is convinced "incredible" Hearts can hold their nerve during the run-in and complete the biggest title upset of the modern era.
Following Celtic's win at Aberdeen on Wednesday night, Hearts are five points clear of the defending champions and six above Rangers with nine games remaining.
"I think the pressure will be on now," Berra told BBC Scotland. "Within the club, they know they've got a real good chance. They've been incredible all season.
"They've only lost four games. They are unbeaten at home and have managed to keep winning games despite losing some key players, especially Lawrence Shankland.
"They just keep on chalking those games off and there's only nine to go. It's definitely theirs to lose now. "
Derek McInnes' side are bidding to end the Old Firm's 41-year stranglehold on the title and become top-flight champions for the first time since 1960.
"It's been so long since a team other than the Old Firm have been genuine contenders at this stage, let alone title winners," added former defender Berra.
"And we know that financial gulf is still enormous between the top two and the rest.
"It was always going to be an uphill battle but this year a lot of things have fallen into place. Hearts have a strong squad, they've recruited well, and we all know Celtic and Rangers are not the Celtic and Rangers of old.
"In Scottish football, a lot of people outside of the Old Firm I think are rooting for Hearts. I think even some Hibs fans maybe will actually... I take that back. I think they might all leave the country for a couple of months if Hearts win the league.
"But change is good. It happened down south with Leicester before and this is the biggest opportunity for a long time - Hearts have to grasp it. I think in the modern era it would be the biggest upset."
While McInnes is a vastly experienced manager, Berra reckons the 54-year-old will find leading a title charge with Hearts "surreal".
"It'll be new to him as well. Obviously, at the top of the league, there is going to be pressure, more so from the outside," he added.
"But they've been handling the pressure exceptionally well and I don't see why that will change."
Category: General Sports
