Hearts appoint ex-Rangers assistant Thomson as new SWPL coach

Scottish Women's Premier League champions Hearts name Andy Thomson as their new head coach after Eva Olid's departure.

New head coach announcement Andy Thomson has been named as the new head coach of Hearts, taking over from Eva Olid in the SWPL role. The 55-year-old leaves his assistant manager position at Rangers, where he served since early 2025. The club confirmed the appointment following Olid's exit, who guided Hearts to their historic first top-flight championship in her final game. Hearts previously stated the Spaniard would depart at season's end. ## Coaching and playing background Thomson brings extensive experience from both playing and coaching. During his playing days, he featured as a forward for Queen of the South, Partick Thistle, Falkirk, Stenhousemuir, and four clubs in England. His coaching journey began with the University of Strathclyde men's team, followed by roles at Caledonian Braves and University of Stirling. He also assisted Shelley Kerr during her tenure with the Scotland women's national team and later held the position of football development manager at Motherwell. ## Season preparation details Hearts are set to kick off their SWPL title defense in mid-August under Thomson's leadership. The club's historic achievement last season came despite a loss at Hibs, marking their first-ever league triumph. Eva Olid's transformation of Hearts from amateurs to champions was highlighted in a previous article. The team's upcoming campaign will mark the beginning of a new chapter with their new coach.