Big-money Hearts star jets out in boost to Celtic’s title hopes
Hearts have been slowed by injuries in recent weeks but remain at the top of the Scottish Premiership table.
Until November, Hearts had been unstoppable, and sat six points clear at the top of the league after an unbeaten start.
Head coach Derek McInnes was linked with the Rangers job following the departure of Russell Martin, but the Scot reiterated his desire to stay with the Jam Tarts.
In November, however, four games came and went without victory, allowing champions Celtic to eat into the early advantage.
But on Sunday, Hearts beat Celtic 2-1 at Celtic Park, restoring their three-point lead having played one game more.
Eduardo Ageu travels for treatment as injury persists
Tony Bloom invested in Hearts in June, purchasing a 29% stake in the Scottish Premiership club.
Given the businessman’s successful statistical approach at Brighton, it is no surprise that his investment has led to results for Hearts, too.
The club made several signings in the transfer window, with the acquisition of 10-goal Claudio Braga from Norwegian club Aalesund undoubtedly the standout so far.
| Claudio Braga | Scottish Premiership 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 16 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Chances created | 16 |
| Successful dribbles | 13 |
Record-signing Eduardo Ageu was expected to have enjoyed a similar impact, but the 23-year-old has struggled massively with injuries since arriving.
The midfielder has made just three appearances for Hearts this season, spending the majority of his time in Scotland on the treatment table while recovering from hamstring issues.
McInnes confirmed on Thursday that the Brazilian has now flown to Portugal to undergo medical treatment with the Portuguese Football Federation, in the hopes of returning to action next month.
“Hopefully, we can just get that treatment that he’s needing at the minute and he’ll come back with us the week before Christmas,” the head coach said. “I think he’s progressing well on that side.”
Ageu had returned in October but suffered a setback in training. Hearts will hope to avoid allowing the same to happen, with results now incredibly important to the Jam Tarts’ title hopes.
Two Hearts players near injury returns
Beni Baningime has also suffered from a hamstring injury and is hoping to return to training next week, McInnes confirmed.
The midfielder was present for much of Hearts’ good form, and his return will be a welcome addition.
Calem Nieuwenhof’s issue is a more serious one, with the Australia youth international having failed to make an appearance since July.
The 24-year-old is on a similar recovery path to Baningime, and will hope to make his return against Rangers next week.