Steven Naismith insists Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland is the "best finisher in the league" after the striker scored a late winner against Hibernian in the Edinburgh derby.
The Tynecastle side snatched the victory at Easter Road thanks to a clinical finish from the Scotland international, who bounced back after hitting the post with spot kick early on in the fixture, in a game that was devoid of quality at times.
And Naismith heaped praised on former Dundee United and Ayr man, along with Zander Clarke who saved a penalty from Martin Boyle in the first half.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: " We spoke about Shanks[ Shankland] before the game.
"He has won this game with his finish and Zander [Clark] has won us the game by saving the penalty.
" [Shankland] He is a big personality, he is a leader. I have said a few times that he wants the best and works hard for himself and the team.
"When I started with Shanks as a player he did understand always holding up the play and being in the right position.
"[His goal tonight] that is Shanks and he has done it his whole career. His hold up play is much better and it is that understanding of the game that is much better.
"He is the best finisher in the league for me."
Naismith also touched on the speculation surrounding the Scotland international who's contract at Tynecastle expires at the end of next season.
Rangers are just one of team's linked with the 28-year-old but the Hearts boss is relaxed about the situation.
"He is loved here," Naismith continued. "He is someone who accepts the responsibility and understands what he has.
"It is hard, and I think he spoke about the pressure during the week of constantly getting asked [about his future], but he is dealing with that as well.
"Whatever happens will happen, that is football. The club is comfortable with our stance, Shanks understands it and he also has Euros to to try and get into that squad."
