Sign in

Joel Sked

@sked21.bsky.social
2.3K followers 81 following 1.4K posts

Editor at Hearts Standard. www.heartsstandard.co.uk

PostsRepliesMedia
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 31m
It has been 100 days since Wouter Vrancken was appointed Heart of Midlothian head coach. And he is "really loving it" at the club. In an exclusive interview, he reflects on his time in charge, progress, areas to improve and a reference point.
onlrl.co
100 days of Wouter Vrancken: Life at Hearts, player praise, what he wants to improve
Wouter Vrancken has packed plenty into his 100 days as Hearts head coach. He reflects on his time at Tynecaslte Park so far.
000
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 23h
2️⃣2️⃣ players ⚽ 4-3 win 🏰 Fortress Oriam 🤝 Fagan-Walcott returns 👀 Kabashi and Donkor feature How Hearts fared and who scored in bounce game against Dundee
onlrl.co
Hearts use 22 players in Dundee bounce game as Ageu nets and star returns in 4-3 win
Hearts played Dundee in a bounce game at the Oriam with a number of first-team players getting game time.
051
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
Hearts aim to combat goals conceded from passes in behind. 🗣️ Vrancken: "We don't want to be on the back foot when we don't have the ball." A piece looking at the pattern with @craigcairns.bsky.social and insight from Wouter Vrancken.
heartsstandard.co.uk
The Hearts defensive focus to combat conceded goals pattern and not changing style
Insight into how Hearts are looking to combat conceding from balls played in behind.
011
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Rudi Skacel warmed up for his Hearts return this weekend in the Tennent's Sixes by scoring in a farewell game for Milan Baros, who has retired. He is one of nine in Gary Locke's squad. A chat with the Hearts boss for the tournament on squad building, Flogel and Rudi.
onlrl.co
Behind the Hearts prep for Tennent's Sixes with Skacel tactic and Flogel fitness
Hearts have a nine-man squad under Gary Locke for the return of the Tennent's Sixes this weekend.
122
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Sabri Guendouz has not started a league game for Hearts yet. But Wouter Vrancken has been encouraged by his development and what's required of him. The Hearts head coach also talked Amadou Ba-Sy position and Stuart Findlay.
onlrl.co
Why Sabri Guendouz has impressed and Wouter Vrancken on Amadou Ba-Sy & Stuart Findlay
Sabri Guendouz has made progress as he continues to adapt to the demands of the Hearts coaching staff.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
Malachi Fagan-Walcott will return for Hearts in this week's bounce game. Oisin McEntee won't feature but should return after the break. Wouter Vrancken spoke about getting both back ⤵️
onlrl.co
Hearts plans for bounce game, injury update and Malachi Fagan-Walcott boost
Hearts will use this week's bounce game to give minutes to first-team players.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 29/09/2026
Landry Kabore and MJ Kamson-Kamara were late subs for Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone last night in AFCON qualification. Hearts players to keep an eye on today: Aron Benjaminsen - Moldova v Faroes Rogers Mato - Uganda v Libya Josh McPake - Scotland v Switzerland Sabah Kerjota - San Marino v Albania
022
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
Hearts have a bounce game arranged for later this week as the first team returns from some days off. Opportunity for game time for some key players.
onlrl.co
Hearts behind-closed-doors game arranged as first team return and game time aim
Hearts will continue their work during the international break, including a bounce game this week.
121
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
How have Hearts summer signings fared so far this season? A look at 10 of the recruits. It has understandably been a mixed bag, with some becoming key players immediately, others showing potential and some with a lot to do.
onlrl.co
How 10 Hearts summer signings have fared: Who has surprised and who has more to offer
Hearts had a busy summer transfer window, but how have the new signings fared since joining the club?
020
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 26/09/2026
Fresh from scoring twice for the Faroe Islands 21s, Aron Benjaminsen has earned a call-up to the national team. He won't be available for today's Nations League fixture against Kazakhstan, but he could make his debut in one of the other three games.
onlrl.co
Aron Benjaminsen earns first Faroe Islands call-up after Hearts star nets double
Aron Benjaminsen has been called up for the Faroe Islands national team.
192
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Rogers Mato is in the Uganda XI for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier with Tunisia. It will be his 42nd cap. For the time being, he'll have double the number of caps than the rest of the current Hearts squad combined. Still just 22.
heartsstandard.co.uk
The 8 Hearts players on international duty and when they are in action
Hearts have a number of players on international duty across the next couple of weeks.
173
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
James Wilson is heading back to Scotland to play for the 21s. Still considered part of the national team and could join back up with Pocognoli's squad.
onlrl.co
Hearts striker James Wilson leaves Scotland squad to play for under-21 side
Heart of Midlothian forward James Wilson will leave the Scotland squad to join the under-21 set-up.
041
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Detailed breakdown from @craigcairns.bsky.social on why Hearts haven't entered the free-agent market, examining all the factors at play.
heartsstandard.co.uk
Why Hearts have not turned to free agent market to solve injury issues
Wouter Vrancken has been short of numbers in midfield and defence.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
A really positive night for Hearts at Kelty. Leart Kabashi played for the first time and in the No.10 role, while Jaedon Donkor netted a hat-trick continue to impress. More to come on both @heartsstandard.bsky.social
heartsstandard.co.uk
How Hearts B took big step in KDM Trophy with hat-trick hero and new signing
Hearts B defeated Kelty Hearts 5-3 in the KDM Evolution Trophy. Angus Blacklock was at New Central Park.
082
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
How Hearts and Wouter Vrancken will utilise the lengthy international break with a bounce game planned for next week.
onlrl.co
The Hearts plan for international break outlined - Volume, bounce game, time off
Hearts will look to take advantage of the lengthy international break ahead of a hectic schedule.
021
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 22/09/2026
Reflections on the first 15 games of the season going into the international break. Ups and downs, mixed emotions, injuries and inconsistency, but progress and potential.
onlrl.co
How first 15 games have left Hearts with mixed emotions after rollercoaster start
Hearts head into the international break in a positive position with plenty of potential but there is a feeling it could have been even better.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 20/09/2026
Hearts will seek clarification from the SFA regarding the disallowed goal at Kilmarnock.
onlrl.co
Hearts to seek SFA clarification over disallowed goal in draw with Kilmarnock
Hearts thought they had taken the lead at Rugby Park on Saturday only for the goal to be ruled out.
130
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
Wouter Vrancken called the decision to rule out the Hearts goal early on "strange" and is keen to hear the "SFA explanation". He also explained why he replaced Stuart Findlay in the first half: "Because it was not good enough, especially when we got the ball."
onlrl.co
Why Hearts are unhappy with disallowed goal and the Stuart Findlay sub explained
Wouter Vrancken expressed his bemusement around the Hearts disallowed goal at Kilmarnock.
030
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
A very frustrating evening at Rugby Park for Hearts. Created more than enough to win. Profligate in front of goal and still giving up cheap goals at the other end. Ageu a welcome return in the midfield and a big call from Vrancken with Findlay.
onlrl.co
Why Ageu was a welcome return for Hearts, a frustrating result and a big call
Hearts left it late to equalise at Rugby Park to earn a 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock. Joel Sked reflects.
152
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
Need a lie down after trying to predict what the Hearts XI could be today. A lot revolves around Harry Milne and Claudio Braga. Tomas Magnusson will likely be back in and almost certain Stephen Kingsley starts, but unsure if it was be LB, LCB or RCB!
onlrl.co
Why the Hearts line-up decision isn't straightforward and two big questions
Hearts face Kilmarnock in the final fixture before the international break.
020
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 19/09/2026
🇦🇱 Sabah Kerjota has earned his first call-up for the Albania national team. Albania boss Rolando Maran watched him at Tynecastle Park v St Johnstone. Looked at Kerjota’s journey from Albania to the Italian lower leagues to Hearts recently.
heartsstandard.co.uk
Inside Sabah Kerjota's journey to Hearts star: Bargain fee, Italy step, big potential
The Albanian is emerging as a key attacking figure for Hearts, whether it is from the start or off the bench.
120
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Scotland became something Calvin Miller started to think about once he moved to Hearts. The winger speaks to @heartsstandard.bsky.social about how his view changed, his disappointment at missing out on a call-up and changing the manager's mind.
onlrl.co
How Calvin Miller's Scotland view changed with Hearts move and reaction to no call-up
The attacker was a surprise non-inclusion in the Scotland national team squad.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
If Wouter Vrancken were picking the Scotland squad, Calvin Miller would be his first pick from Hearts. He explained why he is a huge fan, plus his key reflection on Falkirk loss and the "amazing" Hearts support going to Killie.
onlrl.co
Why Calvin Miller would have been Wouter Vrancken's first Hearts pick for Scotland
The Belgian head coach spoke on Calvin Miller and looked ahead to the Kilmarnock fixture.
020
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
Ageu is in contention for a Hearts return as Wouter Vrancken spoke about what he likes about the Brazilian and the midfield role he could play. Plus updates on Magnusson, McEntee and Fagan-Walcott.
onlrl.co
Ageu is contention for Hearts return as Wouter Vrancken gives update on trio
Hearts face Kilmarnock on Saturday at Rugby Park. Wouter Vrancken could have players back.
061
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 17/09/2026
A first defeat in 10 games is disappointing for Hearts. But more disappointing was the manner of the defeat. A look at what can be learned from some of the concerns that materialised, from a surprise target to Braga's role.
onlrl.co
The three Hearts concerns shown in first loss in 10 games and the Braga question
Hearts fell to a first defeat in 10 games on Tuesday night. There were aspects that Wouter Vrancken will have learned from.
051
Reposted by Joel Sked
Hearts Standard @heartsstandard.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
A man has been arrested and charged in connection with an assault at Celtic v Hearts at the end of last season. Hearts Standard understands the alleged assault was on a Hearts player, with further investigations continuing.
onlrl.co
Arrest made after assualt on Hearts player in final game of the season at Celtic park
An arrest has been made for an alleged assault during the Celtic v Hearts fixture.
064
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
Josh McPake has two goals and eight assists since breaking into the Hearts team. A Scotland call-up was the latest in a "mad" journey for the winger who was "buzzing" when he got the call from Sebastien Pocognoli. @craigcairns.bsky.social ✍️
heartsstandard.co.uk
Josh McPake's 'mad few years', the Scotland call and 8 goal contributions at Hearts
The 25-year-old winger was this week called up for his country for the first time.
060
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
Wouter Vrancken's assessment on Hearts defeat: 'Poor performance, simple', too many players 'under level', he saw 'panic' and 'not good enough'. Also explained Williams for Wilson sub and that it's too early judge McEntee and Magnusson readiness for Saturday.
onlrl.co
Wouter Vrancken reveals why Hearts were 'not good enough', HT sub and injury latest
Wouter Vrancken was honest in his assessment as Hearts fell to a 2-1 loss to Falkirk.
120
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
Hearts fall to a 2-1 loss at Falkirk. A deserved loss. The team were the masters of their own downfall on a night where so many fell below the standards/expectation. So sloppy, lethargic and lacking conviction.
heartsstandard.co.uk
How Hearts were the masters of their own downfall in deserving loss at Falkirk
Hearts fell to a 2-1 defeat to Falkirk. It ends their nine-game unbeaten run.
160
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 15/09/2026
Yan Dhanda makes his first Hearts start since May 2025 when he lasted just 38 minutes for a challenge on Stuart Findlay. One of six changes, with a complete change in the front four as Jordi Altena also returns. Selection thoughts ⤵️
heartsstandard.co.uk
Falkirk v Hearts LIVE: The 6 changes to the starting XI as Dhanda starts
Hearts go in search of a win at Falkirk that would make it 10 games unbeaten and move them into second in the Premiership.
011
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
Christian Borchgrevink's situation has changed a fair bit at Hearts. After thinking he might have to leave, he is happy and relishing the change in style from "the conservative Scottish football on steroids". Really enjoyable chat with the Norwegian. 🔗 onlrl.co/wxjs49
031
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
Oisin McEntee is out of the Falkirk game while Hearts face a wait on Tomas Magnusson. Vrancken also talks Spittal, semi-final draw and why Ba-Sy was not included on Friday.
onlrl.co
Hearts midfield wait ahead of Falkirk, Oisin McEntee out and Blair Spittal rehab
Hearts take on Falkirk on Tuesday night as they go in search of 10 games unbeaten.
120
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
Stephen Kingsley returned for Hearts on Friday and a lot had changed from his previous appearance. He spoke of why the tough start was good for the team and why his return was slow played after he wanted to play the previous weekend. www.heartsstandard.co.uk/news/2654585...
heartsstandard.co.uk
Stephen Kingsley on injury return and why tough start helped Hearts progress
The experienced defender returned after an absence of seven weeks.
031
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
The USA chants started before JJ Williams had even kicked a ball as a Hearts player. They boomed from the away end after he opened his scoring. Interview with the striker on the love from the fans, why he should have had a hat-trick, what his dad was going to say and 'different level' Rogers Mato.
onlrl.co
JJ WIlliams on love from fans, his dad's feedback and 'different level' Hearts star
JJ Williams scored his first goal for Heart in the 3-0 win over Stenhousemuir on Friday night.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
Many expected Hearts to take a step back this season. The signs of late suggest Hearts are taking a step forward. Why it is shaping up to be an even more exciting season than last season's title tilt.
onlrl.co
Hearts shaping up for more exciting season than title tilt: Progress, depth, Scooter
Hearts fans are enjoying life right now as the team continue to make progress under Wouter Vrancken.
042
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Wouter Vrancken was very happy with the Hearts approach and performance. Spoke effusively about Rogers Mato, his delight with JJ and the Yan Dhanda situation.
onlrl.co
Wouter Vrancken on Hearts delight, Mato and Williams impact and Yan Dhanda situation
The Hearts head coach was delighted with the team's approach to the 3-0 win over Stenhousemuir in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final.
032
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Heart of Midlothian are heading back to Hampden Park after a comfortable night at Ochilview. JJ Williams and Rogers Mato very good and demonstrated the attacking depth. And Yan Dhanda!
onlrl.co
How Hearts progressed to League Cup semi-final as attacking depth shines
Hearts defeated Stenhousemuir 3-0 in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final. Joel Sked looks back at the action.
061
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
How will Hearts and Wouter Vrancken approach the game tonight? I predict four changes. Think two of the important ones could be JJ Williams and Christian Borchgrevink in terms of how the game will be played.
onlrl.co
How do Hearts and Wouter Vrancken approach Stenhousemuir tie and 4 possible changes
Hearts take on Championship league leaders Stenhousemuir in the League Cup quarter-final.
120
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 11/09/2026
Hearts are one game from a League Cup semi-final. But they face a Stenhousemuir side that Wouter Vrancken believes are better than some Premiership sides in their organisation and how they press.
heartsstandard.co.uk
What Hearts can expect from Stenhousemuir as Vrancken gives 'Premiership' praise
Wouter Vrancken reserved some big praise for League Cup opponents Stenhousemuir.
001
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Wouter Vrancken revealed the Hearts return plan for Ageu. The Brazilian is eager to return to action. Oisin McEntee is out tomorrow, but positive news on Kingsley, Fagan-Walcott and Finlay Pollock.
onlrl.co
The Hearts return plan for Ageu revealed, McEntee injury latest and Pollock boost
Wouter Vrancken spoke ahead of Hearts' Premier Sports Cup trip to Stenhousemuir.
000
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
It was a very busy summer at Tynecastle Park. A look back at the Hearts transfer window. 32 deals, a structure change and a new-look squad.
onlrl.co
The story of the Hearts transfer window: 13 signings, 19 exits and structure change
Hearts undertook a very busy summer transfer window as the squad was somewhat overhauled.
141
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 07/09/2026
Heart of Midlothian have only scratched the surface of Sabah Kerjota's talent and potential. He produced another game-winning performance on Sunday, with his goal the latest staging post in his Hearts career. A look at the <£70k bargain, his journey to Gorgie and the last 12 months.
onlrl.co
Inside Sabah Kerjota's journey to Hearts star: Bargain fee, Italy step, big potential
The Albanian is emerging as a key attacking figure for Hearts, whether it is from the start or off the bench.
092
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 06/09/2026
Wouter Vrancken admitted the Hearts midfield options are "thin". He discussed Ageu and possible options. Also gave an update on Oisin McEntee, who "felt something".
heartsstandard.co.uk
Wouter Vrancken on Hearts' 'thin' midfield options and why Oisin McEntee was subbed
Wouter Vrancken discussed the injury to Blair Spittal and his midfield options after the 2-1 win over Dundee.
031
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
The first 45 minutes were as good as Hearts have been under Wouter Vrancken and a snapshot of the potential that this side possess. Why were Hearts so good? A sign of a well-coached team, a clear game plan, fluidity, Edinburgh derby 101 and Blair Spittal.
onlrl.co
Why Hearts were so go in first half of win over Hibs: Unsung hero and derby 101
Hearts demonstrated their potential with a fine 45-minute showing at Easter Road.
010
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
The Hearts of Midlothian squad for the Conference League. It is a 23-man squad, with Finlay Pollock added as well as a new signing, but three notable absentees.
onlrl.co
The 23-man Hearts squad for Conference League, signing added, notable omissions
Hearts have named their squad for the league phase of the Conference League.
040
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Wouter Vrancken hailed the Hearts fans after his first derby win as head coach. He also spoke on McPake and Wilson impact and Spittal's injury. 🗣️ "Seeing him jumping on his crutches."
onlrl.co
Why Wouter Vrancken hailed Hearts fans, Blair Spittal latest, McPake assessment
The Belgian spoke to the press after his debut win as Hearts head coach.
0122
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
HEART OF MIDLOTHIAN FOOTBALL CLUB. A brilliant first-half performance. Lost the way after the break but aided by the sending off. Josh McPake excellent in front of Pocognoli and James Wilson scores again.
heartsstandard.co.uk
How Hearts fans enjoyed themselves in Leith as derby dominance continued
Hearts made it seven games unbeaten and moved into third with a 3-1 win over Hibs at Easter Road.
3233
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
MJ Kamson-Kamara is set to leave Hearts on loan. Expected to join Killie on a short-term deal.
heartsstandard.co.uk
MJ Kamson-Kamara leaves Hearts on short-term loan deal to Premiership rival
MJ Kamson-Kamara to join Kilmarnock on a short-term loan.
031
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 03/09/2026
Hearts have completed their 13th signing of the summer with the addition of Leart Kabashi from Grasshopper on a four-year deal. Viewed primarily as a No.10, he is highly regarded.
onlrl.co
Hearts announce Leart Kabashi, Swiss youth international, 13th summer signing
Hearts have completed the signing of Leart Kabashi.
070
Joel Sked @sked21.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
Who is Hearts' exciting new teen Aron Benjaminsen? The son of a Faroese football legend who possesses the attacking X-factor.
heartsstandard.co.uk
Who is Hearts new boy Aron Benjaminsen: X-factor, son of a legend, game-changer
Hearts have signed Aron Benjaminsen on a long-term deal. He is one of Faroe Islands' brightest talents.
010