Calvin Miller’s late impact for Hearts against Motherwell offered another reminder of what he can bring at the top end of the pitch. The former Celtic youngster came off the bench and scored a low effort from around 18 yards, adding a goal to a season that has already featured nine goals and 11 assists.
A direct attacking threat
Since joining Hearts from Falkirk in the summer, Miller has begun to show why he is being viewed as more than just a useful squad option. He has developed into a direct attacking threat, and his ability to affect games in the final third is now clear. He has also been able to contribute from different areas of the pitch, which only increases his value to Hearts.
That versatility was on show earlier this season when his performance at left-back against Dundee United was praised. Even so, Miller has been clear about where he sees himself fitting best. In his own view, he is primarily an attacking player, and his recent form supports that idea.
Would Celtic have used him?
The conversation around Miller is not just about his form at Hearts. His goal against Motherwell also feeds into a wider debate about whether Celtic missed a chance by not re-signing a former academy player who now looks comfortable making a difference at a high level. With Hearts pushing toward a top-six finish, Miller’s numbers and performances have given him a growing profile.
For Hearts, the immediate takeaway is simple: they have a player who can influence matches from the bench and offer flexibility in different roles. For Celtic, it is a more awkward question. Miller is producing, adapting and showing he can be a useful player in more than one position. Against Motherwell, he gave another example of that in one clean finish from around 18 yards.
