DUFFY REVEALS RIX ASSURANCES

By Ronnie Esplin, PA Sport

Jim Duffy revealed he sought assurances from Hearts' majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov about the future of head coach Graham Rix before he accepted the new director of football post at Tynecastle.

The 46-year-old Duffy was brought to the club by Rix before the end of last month to help with coaching duties but has now been promoted by the Lithuanian on a contract lasting until the end of the season.

Rix's future had been in doubt after reports emerged he told the players before the match against Dundee United at Tannadice last week that Romanov was picking the side.

That alleged interference led to a players' delegation, led by skipper Steven Pressley, seeking a meeting with the Lithuanian, with talks ending amicably.

Duffy claims he took little time in accepting his new job as soon as he knew he would definitely be working with Rix until the summer.

He said: "I had a meeting with Vladimir on Saturday night and we talked about a variety of things for a couple of hours.

"He asked me if I would like to take the job on until the end of the season.

"I wanted answers to some questions and he answered me. I asked if Graham would be here until the end of the season and he assured me that unless something very dramatic occurred then he would be.

"It would have been a difficult decision if I hadn't got those assurances because of the uncertainty.

"I would want to know who I was working with because you have to trust each other 100%.

"I know Graham, I trust him and he trusts me, but if you're not sure then you can have friction.

"So when I was assured about Graham I then accepted straight away."

Duffy, however, admits he did not quiz Romanov with regards the Lithuanian's reported involvement in team selection.

He said: "I didn't need to ask if Graham was picking the team because I know he is.

"I was more concerned with the continuity at the club. The players know Graham is in charge now.

"He can concentrate and enjoy what he was brought to the club to do, which is working with players, and he doesn't have to be rushing away to meetings or things like that.

"The players will be delighted that the problems have been put aside and they can concentrate on what is still an opportunity to have a great season."

Despite the promotion, Duffy insists Rix does not answer to him now.

He said: "I'm not his boss, I'm there to help him.

"I will be looking at all the aspects of football like recruitment, medical developments and contracts - and reporting back to Mr Romanov."

Taken from sportinglife.com