‘I’ve never experienced anything like that’ – Hearts’ system and Malachi Fagan-Walcott’s learning process

The Englishman is relishing the European adventure…

By Barry Anderson · Edinburgh Evening News

Published: Wednesday, 4 November 2026 at 10:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Malachi Fagan-Walcott reflected on adapting to Hearts' tactical system and higher-level European competition.
The defender joined Hearts from English fifth-tier club York City for more than £700,000 on a permanent transfer.
Head coach Wouter Vrancken has helped Fagan-Walcott transition into playing in a four-man defense.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Hearts defender Malachi Fagan-Walcott has opened up about adapting to Scottish and European football following his transfer from York City. The English center-back joined the Tynecastle side for over £700,000 in the summer and is currently traveling with the squad in Switzerland ahead of a UEFA Conference League match against FC Thun.

Fagan-Walcott highlighted the challenge of adjusting to head coach Wouter Vrancken's four-man defense after previously playing in a back three. He also emphasized the necessity of staying completely focused against higher-quality opposition, noting the significant step up in crowd sizes and intensity from the English fifth tier.

Read the full article on Edinburgh Evening News