The Scotland attacker scored 59 goals in his first two seasons at Tynecastle, but has only one goal in 15 games this season.

Hearts manager Neil Critchley has given his full support to Lawrence Shankland and stated that he has no plans to take the captaincy from the underperforming striker.

The 29-year-old Scottish attacker scored 59 goals in his first two seasons at Tynecastle, but has only one goal in 15 games this season as the Jambos struggle at the foot of the William Hill Premiership.

Some fans have advocated for a change in captaincy as Shankland, who is generally anticipated to depart Hearts when his contract ends in the summer, continues to struggle in front of goal, but head coach Critchley has said unequivocally that he has no intention of removing the armband from him.

“No, none at all,” he responded on Friday. “That never comes into my mind. Otherwise, you are always assessing things based on their outcomes. Lawrence is captain. He is captain for a reason, and he will remain such.”

Critchley has supervised four Hearts games since taking over as manager last month, and he is “really impressed” with Shankland’s total performance thus far.

“I spoke to him again on the training pitch this morning and of course he’s a striker, he wants to score goals, he’s frustrated that he’s not hitting the back of the net,” said the Englishman.

“But I believe his overall performance in the previous two of games has been great. I believe he performed like a true captain and leader. He’s contributed so much to the squad by playing and leading the line for us, and he’s come so close to scoring.

“If he keeps putting himself in certain situations then with his finishing ability off both feet or his head, he will get goals, I’ve got no doubt.”

Critchley also denied comments from some Hearts fans that Shankland’s on-field body language was unsuitable for a captain.

“No, no, no,” he answered. “I’m really comfortable with the way he is. Of course, if he misses an opportunity or a time, he has high expectations of himself.

“He expects to score goals, so it is natural to feel disappointed if you miss a chance or don’t connect well.

“I’m sure if you looked at me, I’d be (slumped).” It is human. We are all human. We all experience emotions.

“Lawrence wants to score goals but if you look at his all-round contribution to the team, his physical effort – and the data will back that up – he’s put so much into the last few games and if he keeps working hard, then it will turn for him.”

Critchley, whose side visits St Johnstone on Saturday, is unconcerned about Shankland’s morale.

“No, honestly, he’s been brilliant,” she said. “I chatted with him this morning. Obviously, we were unhappy to lose the game the other night (against Kilmarnock), but his and the team’s response this morning has been outstanding, so I’m excited to see how we play tomorrow.”

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