How Braga became Hearts fan favourite

Claudio Braga was the winner when we asked Hearts fans to choose their best player of a memorable season so far. Few could have expected the sunning impact the Portuguese has had since joining on a three-year deal from Norwegian second-tier outfit Aalesunds last summer. We've taken a look at the numbers behind Braga's campaign and it's clear to see why Hearts fans are raving about the attacker.

The 26-year-old is neck and neck with Lawrence Shankland on 17 goals for the season across all competitions - but in the Premiership Braga leads by one, having netted 14 in 13 games. While other key players have been struck down by injury at various times, Braga has been a near constant. His 2,935 minutes played is the most of any outfield Hearts player.

Braga is averaging a goal every 182. 3 minutes, basically one every two games, and his 92 shots (43 on target) is the highest in the league, as are his five headed goals. He has also contributed two vitally important game-winning goals.

In January, he netted in a 1-0 victory at Dundee. He did the same at home against Aberdeen at the end of February in a match which, at the time, moved Hearts seven points clear at the top. The striker is outperforming his expected goals (xG) of 13.