Boyce delighted with Hearts style and strike partner

Hearts striker Liam Boyce has said that he’s reaping the benefits of a style that suits him and new strike partner Steven Naismith.

Boyce arrived from Burton Albion at the end of the transfer window to bolster the struggling side’s attack and he has hit the ground running with the winning goal against Rangers and another in the draw at St Johnstone.

Strike partner, and new Hearts captain, Steven Naismith has also scored in both game and Boyce has nothing but praise for the veteran forward.

“When I was playing at Burton, we were playing a different formation and there was a bit more pressure on me to hold the ball for longer, he said. “People can get toes in and nick it off you.

“But when he is so close to me it’s brilliant, I can do it in one touch and lay it off and keep the moves flowing and keep the momentum going and driving everyone forward.

“Just having someone with that experience and that quality close to you, I know if I give him the ball any time he is more than likely going to keep it for us.

“I like playing with my back to goal, getting flicked balls and one touch round the corner, that’s how I take advantage of defenders who expect you to hold it up and slow it down and get it wide.

“But when you have got someone who is as smart as he is and can flick the ball into me and play one-twos, it causes other teams a lot of problems.”

While appreciating Naismith’s contributions in front of goal, Boyce said that his leadership on the pitch was impressive.

“Everyone knows the player he is and what he’s done in the game and he has still been brilliant since I have come in,” he said.

“What I didn’t know before I came was how good he is on the pitch talking to people and helping them through things.

“I have been at clubs before where, not captains, but some older players put people down and start arguing and it only makes younger players go into their shell.

“But he is the complete opposite. He will be a great captain for the club.

“The way he talks to the younger players is unbelievable, he keeps them going and keeps their confidence high.”