Daniel Stendel has sent a message amidst an ongoing war of words between former club Barnsley and Hearts.
The 45-year-old was announced as Hearts boss over the weekend following Hearts’ 1-0 defeat to Motherwell. He takes over the Tynecastle club with them in tenth place in the Scottish Premiership.
Stendel is Hearts boss. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
His new employers have hit out at former club Barnsley though. It comes after reports that Barnsley were set to pursue the Jambos for compensation over Stendel’s appointment.
Taking to his official Facebook, the man himself has responded to the ongoing row: “During my entire time at Barnsley I gave my full commitment, energy and passion for the club and their supporters. I always put the sporting results of Barnsley first and always tried to achieve the very best results that were possible.
“The start to this season was very difficult though, with the club being unable to retain several key players from the promotion team and couldn’t replace these experienced players. I always remained committed and accepted all the decisions of the Board during my entire time – including the decision to terminate my contract with immediate effect. At the day of my dismissal I wasn’t informed about any detailed reasons.
The Barnsley v Hearts dispute rumbles on. (Photo by Alex Dodd – CameraSport via Getty Images)
“The week before my dismissal I asked for an open discussion about the sporting situation with a Board Member, during which none of the reasons that apparently led to my dismissal were raised as complaints I am an honest person and always wanted the best for the club. The people from Barnsley and the fans know that. I always was a fighter on and also next to the pitch and will also now fight for my rights.”
Caught in the middle
This must be a horrible situation for Stendel. His new venture at Hearts has been largely overshadowed by the ongoing disputes between both Barnsley and the Jambos.
As both sides trade words and statements, Stendel is caught right in the middle. It’ll not be ideal for him when he likely faces a barrage of questions about it at his press conference following his Gorgie unveiling.
He’ll face the media soon. (Photo by Rich Linley – CameraSport via Getty Images)
His full focus, where possible, will have to be on preparing for his first Hearts game this weekend. They take on St Johnstone, a game they need to win to help alleviate any relegation fears.
Ongoing disputes behind the scenes won’t be helping his preparation.