Robbie previews Kilmarnock trip

30 March 2023

The midfielder is following concussion protocols after picking up a knock in Australia’s 2-1 defeat to Ecuador during the international break.
 
There was some positive news though, with the gaffer hopeful his Aussie compatriots – Kye Rowles, Garang Kuol and Nathaniel Atkinson – will be available for selection when Hearts lock horns with the Rugby Park side on Saturday.
 
“Cammy will miss the game at the weekend,” Robbie told the press. “He was dealing with concussion after the game, and it flagged up with their doctor. He was delayed getting his flight home and won’t get in until later tomorrow. The rest should all be fine.
 
“Lawrence and Zander came back today, and the Australian boys are back tomorrow. We’re all back together so focus now turns to going down to Killie and winning the game.”
 
Derek McInnes and his Kilmarnock team are next up, with the Jambos resuming cinch Premiership business following the break. Hearts fell to a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Aberdeen at Pittodrie last time out with everyone at Tynecastle keen to bounce back quickly.
 
Asked whether Killie, fighting for survival near the bottom of the table, will provide a particularly stern test, Robbie emphasised that every team in the league is hunting for points as the season approaches it’s climax.
 
“We were disappointed at Aberdeen but the only way to put that right is to win the next game. That’s all you can do in football. The players have trained really well,” he added.
 
“Attention is on trying to get that third place tied down. We’ve got nine games to go and everyone around us is going to be fighting for that third place. The way that the league is, every game is competitive. You’ve got teams going for survival, others pushing for top six, ones looking to stay in the top six and others fighting for Europe.
 
“Every game at this moment, especially as we get into single digit number of games remaining, everyone will be fighting. I’m expecting a tough, physical game. Look at the stats and over 50% of their goals come from set-plays. You have to be organised in these situations.”