Craig’s never had it so tough as a manager
His first spell as Hearts boss was scarred by financial strife, boardroom turmoil and fan protests.
But Craig Levein insists this season has been his toughest in charge of the Jam Tarts.
Levein first took charge at Gorgie in December, 2000.
With record losses of £ 3.7m hanging over the club and hate- figure Chief Executive Chris Robinson pursuing the sale of Tynecastle, the mood was grim.
New gaffer Levein was faced with a decimated playing budget and tasked with slashing numbers from his squad.
Right up until he departed for Leicester City in 2004, it seemed c i rc u m s t a n c e s we re against him.
But ahead of his side’s clash with Celtic today, the Hearts boss revealed the difficulties he and his players have overcome at the beginning of his second spell in charge have put the s l ow - burning crisis of the early 2000s in the shade.
Asked whether this campaign had been his most challenging in the Tynecastle hot seat, his answer was unequivocal. “By far,” said Levein. “Even when I first came in last time round, and was moving a lot of players out, we managed to shift things around.
“This year, there are a number of things we need to add to give us the best chance of being successful next year.
“But I’m comfortable – not h a p p y, but comfortable – with where we are. It’s a big summer for us.”
When supporters think of a “big” summer, they tend to think in terms of cash being splashed and big names coming in the door.
That won’t necessarily be the case at Tynecastle, where a huge sum of money has already been spent over the last year.
Hear ts have got a brand-new main stand to show for it – and they’ll have a new hybrid pitch by the time next season kicks off.
But, for all the longterm benefits the club expects to reap from its infrastructural investment, the shortterm headaches have taken their toll, too.
“We spent £ 15m on a stand and we have a new pitch going in this summer as well,” said Levein.
“It is a perfect storm. All of these things have made it really difficult. Which is why it is, without doubt, the hardest season I have had.
“T h e re have been external challenges rather than just the normal stuff.
“Looking at it, you think: ‘ That looks quite tough, playing all those away games in a row’.
“But I didn’t realise just how tough, particularly with the contrast in our home and away form.”