Joe Savage reflects on missed opportunity to sign Nicky Devlin

Former Hearts director Joe Savage shares his thoughts on Nicky Devlin's transfer.

Joe Savage reflects on missed opportunity to sign Nicky Devlin

In a candid interview, former Hearts sporting director Joe Savage expressed his regret over not securing the signing of Nicky Devlin, the talented defender who has made a significant impact at Aberdeen since his arrival. Devlin, who joined the Dons at the end of his contract with Livingston in the summer of 2023, has quickly established himself as a key player, even earning his first cap for Scotland in a recent match against Portugal.

The rise of Nicky Devlin

Devlin’s journey to prominence has been remarkable. After a successful stint at Livingston, where he showcased his defensive skills and leadership qualities, he made the move to Pittodrie. His performances have not only solidified his position in the Aberdeen lineup but have also caught the attention of national selectors. Savage’s acknowledgment of Devlin’s potential highlights the player’s growth and the missed opportunity for Hearts.

Joe Savage’s reflections

During his appearance on the Open Goal podcast, Savage stated, “That’s a regret of ours, we should have signed Nicky at Hearts.” He elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the missed signing, indicating that the club’s management at the time did not act swiftly enough. “Robbie (Neilson) was all over him and wanted him,” Savage recalled, emphasizing that the interest was genuine. However, with the transition from Neilson to Steven Naismith as manager, priorities shifted, and the opportunity slipped away.

The implications of missed signings

The situation with Devlin is not an isolated incident in the world of football transfers. Many clubs face similar dilemmas, where potential signings can significantly alter a team’s trajectory. Savage’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of timely decision-making in the transfer market. As he noted, “It’s not that Steven didn’t want him, but we just didn’t react quick enough.” This sentiment resonates with many football clubs, where the balance between strategy and opportunity can dictate success.

Other transfer pursuits

In addition to discussing Devlin, Savage’s comments come at a time when other clubs are also navigating the complexities of player acquisitions. Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes recently revealed his attempts to sign players like Yan Dhanda, Blair Spittal, and James Penrice before they joined Hearts. McInnes expressed his belief that these players would have been valuable additions to his squad, further illustrating the competitive nature of the transfer market.

As the football season progresses, the impact of these decisions will continue to unfold, with clubs reflecting on their strategies and the players they could have brought on board. For Joe Savage and Hearts, the story of Nicky Devlin serves as a poignant reminder of the fine line between opportunity and regret in the fast-paced world of football.