BANNON - RICHES COMMAND RESPECT

Former Hearts forward Eamonn Bannon insists majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov should not suffer a backlash following the departure of George Burley.

Burley left Tynecastle at the weekend amid speculation his position had become untenable as a result of Romanov's influence at team level.

Confidentiality clauses mean both parties are remaining tight-lipped over the reason behind the parting of ways.

What is known is that Romanov bought players Burley did not want, or had even seen in action, prompting the former Ipswich and Derby boss to famously declare: "I pick the team and the day I don't pick the team is the day I won't be here."

Bannon sympathises with any manager not given 100% control over team selection and knows many supporters will be angered by Burley's departure.

But he reckons fans should bear in mind that Romanov's millions are the main reason why Hearts are top of the Bank of Scotland Premier League.

Bannon said: "If you are a manager and the owner wants to give you players then there is no problem.

"But, if he starts dictating who should be in the team, that's the time to draw the line.

"Romanov has got big plans, he has put his money where his mouth is and he has dragged Hearts up by the boot strings. So I don't think you can criticise him too much."

But Bannon fears Romanov could be held responsible if Hearts do not win the SPL this season.

The former Tynecastle star believes championship success is unlikely anyway but warns Burley's departure could be used as an excuse if their title challenge crumbles.

He added: "I hope Hearts win the league, but I don't think they will.

"If they don't, people will look back on this time and highlight the departure of Burley as the reason.

"Romanov is in a no-win situation unless they do win the league, which is unlikely."

As for the real reason behind Burley's departure, Bannon knows from personal experience that it could be some time before the truth eventually comes out.

He said: "When I was Tommy McLean's assistant at Hearts, there were always arguments with (then chief executive) Chris Robinson, usually over money or buying players.

"Eventually it all fell apart and Tommy was sacked. I was there but totally unaware of what was going on.

"It's the same now. No-one really knows what's going on and I think it will be a while before we do."

Taken from sportinglife.com