Hearts striker Christian Nade, publicly criticised by his manager for being overweight in the summer, has credited his girlfriend for the transformation in his physique this season, because she has cut out the junk food and nights out.
Hearts striker Christian Nade, publicly criticised by his manager for being overweight in the summer, has credited his girlfriend for the transformation in his physique this season, because she has cut out the junk food and nights out.
The 24-year-old admits he was hurt by Csaba Laszlo's assessment of him - the player was given his own training programme aimed at shedding the pounds - and despite only having scored one goal so far this term, is in the best form of his Hearts career.
He admits having girlfriend Shona move into his apartment has helped him to produce the performances that have kickstarted his season.
Nade, who hopes Hearts can close the 10-point gap on Rangers today at Tynecastle, said: "It's the first time I have started four games like this so I am very happy. I now live with my girlfriend Shona and she has helped me. She has changed my eating habits, she has changed everything in my life.
"Last season, I used to go out quite a lot but now I stay at home and eat good food and everything is better. I was upset and angry when he said I was overweight but maybe it was a good thing because I wanted to show him and the fans what I can do and that I am not a lazy guy."
Laszlo, meanwhile, is on a mission to persuade Setanta, who have the rights to all live SPL matches, to increase their coverage of his team.
"In my opinion, always on TV is Rangers, Celtic, Celtic, Rangers. Other teams only get on one or two times, but only if they play against Celtic.
"One time, I would like to see the Hearts game every weekend. We are that important, they can't ignore us."
