Craig Stakes Claim For First Team Spot

Last updated : 18 September 2009 By hearts-mad newsroom
The 18-year-old enjoyed a baptism of fire at right-back in the second leg of the UEFA Europa League play-off clash with Dinamo Zagreb at Tynecastle last month and the latest product from the Football Academy has impressed sufficiently to remain an ever-present since then.

The talented teenager, who is still eligible for the U19s this season, has earned rave reviews since getting his break following Eggert Jonsson's injury, and Csaba looks set to keep faith with his youngster when the Jambos head to Parkhead to take on Celtic on Sunday.

 "I'm not surprised by Craig Thomson and how he has fitted into the team," the Tynecastle manager told Hearts News Today.

 "He has done well in games. But we also have Jason Thomson and Eggert Jonsson so we have three very capable young players. There will be good competition for places when Eggert is fit again.".

Csaba admitted Craig's opportunity arose earlier than anticipated but he believes the youngster has the potential to do well in the game.

 "Because of circumstances I was forced to make this step with Craig Thomson but there is no doubt he can be a very good player if he keeps working hard," he said.

It's been a whirlwind start of the season for young Craig after kicking off against Penicuik Athletic in a pre-season friendly with the Hearts U19s .. and scoring two crackers while playing full back.