Former Everton midfielder Beni Baningime could become an unexpected title winner in Scotland this season.
Everton are looking to progress under The Friedkin Group after last season’s takeover.
A new direction often takes time to bring success, and Everton have started the season with mixed results.
That is not the case with Heart of Midlothian and their new era at Tynecastle.
Brighton and Hove Albion owner Tony Bloom has invested in Hearts and given them access to player data, which has driven success for Brighton and Union Saint-Gilloise.
Celtic FC v Heart of Midlothian FC - William Hill Premiership
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Former Everton midfielder Beni Baningime chasing title glory at Hearts
Bloom had long-term title hopes for Hearts, but nobody expected such immediate success.
Sunday’s 3-1 home win over Celtic means Hearts have already opened up an eight-point lead at the top of the table.
Hearts have made some fascinating signings, plucking players from Norway’s second division, Italy’s third tier and the top flight of Estonia.
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It’s all working perfectly so far, but one former Everton man is at the heart of their early-season form.
Midfielder Beni Baningime has started each of the last six league games for Hearts – and they have won every single one of them.
Baningime spent nearly 15 years in the Everton ranks before signing for Hearts back in 2021.
Baningime broke through with 12 first-team appearances in the 2017-18 season at Everton, but couldn’t nail down a regular place.
After loan spells at Wigan Athletic and Derby County, Everton decided that Baningime would not make the grade.
Injuries have been a problem for Baningime in Edinburgh, but he is now a fixture of the Hearts midfield under Derek McInnes.
Being part of this journey surely wouldn’t have even crossed Baningime’s mind when he departed Everton for Hearts four years ago.
All of a sudden, Baningime could find himself in a title charge as Hearts embrace their new era.
Beni Baningime could make history at Hearts
It’s early days, of course, but try telling Hearts fans not to get excited.
Hearts already have an eight-point lead at this early stage, while Celtic and Rangers are in chaos.
Brendan Rodgers has just quit his post as Celtic boss, with Martin O’Neill the surprise choice to take charge on an interim basis.
Rangers are already onto their second manager of the season after bringing in Danny Rohl to replace Russell Martin.
Former Everton striker Youssef Chermiti is off the mark for Rangers, but the Gers look a long way off being title contenders.
This could be the season for the Celtic and Rangers stronghold to end, some 40 years since Sir Alex Ferguson won the title for Aberdeen in 1985.
The Old Firm have won every single league title since then, but Hearts and Baningime have a chance to make history this season – and make Bloom an instant hero to Jambos fans.