Hearts fans accept board had good intentions

Hearts fans have given their tacit support to majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov after the recent developments which have rocked the Edinburgh club.

Representatives of the four supporters’ organisations – Federation of Hearts Supporters’ Clubs, Heart of Midlothian Shareholders’ Association, Heart of Midlothian Supporters’ Trust and Fans’ Forum – met with Roman Romanov and the recent departures of George Burley, Phil Anderton and George Foulkes were discussed.

Former manager Burley left over a week ago due to “irreconcilable differences”, Anderton was sacked on Monday and the chief executive was followed out of Tynecastle by chairman Foulkes in protest.

Roman Romanov, Vladimir’s son, was installed as chairman and acting chief executive immediately after the departure of Foulkes and Anderton.

The fans’ groups sought answers from the new Jambos chief and a press release which followed the meeting said: “The board felt that George Burley was not able to maintain the progress of the team and reiterated that Burley was not sacked. The board also maintained that there were valid reasons for the dismissal of Phil Anderton.

“The club recognise that the handling of recent events made for poor public relations and accepted the need to improve communications with supporters and restore the feel-good factor.

“Roman Romanov re-emphasised that Vladimir Romanov was committed to the club for the long term and would continue to provide major investment in the team and stadium redevelopment.

“The four supporters’ organisations recognise the contributions of George Burley and Phil Anderton to the recent progress of the club.

“In particular, we would like to express our thanks and sincere gratitude to George Foulkes for his leadership and commitment to securing the club’s future.

“In conclusion, we are united in the view that the board believed that their recent actions were in the best interests of Heart of Midlothian Football Club and we would emphasise that it is important that supporters continue to demonstrate their united support of the team.”