Hearts confirm partnership with analytics firm

A new data analytics firm will be working with Hearts

Hearts have announced an agreement with Jamestown Analytics that will allow "exclusive" Scottish access to player data services.

The company already have agreements in place with Brighton and Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise, who face Rangers in the Europa League in January.

CEO Andrew McKinlay says Hearts being able to utilise the analytics will assist the club in recruitment with work under way for the upcoming January and summer transfer windows.

Jamestown Analytics are an off-shoot of Starlizard, the data firm owned by Brighton major shareholder Tony Bloom. No financial details of the deal have been released by either Hearts or Jamestown Analytics.

Hearts had been in talks with Bloom and also recently appointed Graeme Jones as sporting director. Jones begins his new role on Monday.

"Jamestown Analytics’ reputation in footballing circles is second to none," said McKinlay.

"It is no understatement when I say that they have made ground-breaking progress with clubs across Europe, so to be Scotland’s sole beneficiaries of their expertise is truly exciting.

“I fully believe that the club will reap the benefits of embracing this modern, innovative approach to analytics and we couldn’t be prouder to be associated with Jamestown Analytics as we take Hearts into a new era."

Managing director Justin Said says Jamestown Analytics are "very selective about the clubs we want to work with".

"We feel that Hearts is a good fit," he commented.

Neil Critchley's Hearts men's side face Scottish Premiership champions and leaders Celtic at Tynecastle on Saturday (19:45).

Eva Olid's women's team are away to SWPL opponents Aberdeen on Sunday (13:00).