Why Vrancken marks fresh start at data-driven Hearts

Why Vrancken marks fresh start at data-driven HeartsImage source, SNSImage caption, Belgian Wouter Vrancken is the new head coach of HeartsPublished1 minute agoIn six weeks since Hearts narrowly missed out on the Scottish Premiership title they have lost their captain and several other players, signed seven new ones, and now recruited a head coach to replace the departed Derek McInnes.It has been a rollercoaster period for fans of the Tynecastle club, but when 47-year-old Belgian Wouter Vranckin sat down to answer questions for the first time in his new role it signalled a fresh chapter.Tony Bloom and his analytics company have had an influence on Hearts for well over a year now, but Vranckin replacing McInnes means it is now full speed ahead on the club's data-driven vision.Trust in recruitment processSporting director Graeme Jones said the former Sint-Truiden and Genk boss was "a standout" in the data as they set about their head coach search.Vrancken's repeated ability to get his clubs punching above their weight in Belgium clearly rated highly.However, he also appears a perfect fit for Hearts' strategy and vision. Unlike McInnes, Vrancken says he has always operated as a 'head coach' in a collaborative recruitment structure.Just as well, because seven players have arrived before he did this summer.Vrancken is also friends with Chris O'Loughlin, sporting director at Union Saint-Gilloise, another club Bloom has a stake in and against whom he competed in Belgium."I always wanted to look behind the curtain, actually," Vrancken explained. "So maybe this is an opportunity to do it."I have a lot of confidence or trust in the way the recruitment works because I was confronted with it in Belgium. And now from the other side, I want to be part of it."New Hearts boss Vrancken ready to challenge Old FirmPublished15 hours agoWho is new Hearts head coach Vrancken?Published17 hours agoHearts buy 'direct'...