Hearts appoint Daniel Stendel
Hearts last night ended the long-running will-he, won’t-he, Daniel Stendel saga when confirming the German as their new manager.
The Edinburgh club have spent the last five weeks in negotiations with the former Barnsley boss, who succeeds Craig Levein.
The protracted talks – at one point described as “complex” by club owner Ann Budge – centred on several issues including his terms and conditions.
It took a bizarre turn when it emerged the Tykes believed they were due compensation, despite the fact they removed him from his post in October.
All that is water under the bridge for the Tynecastle club, though, who were bullish in their statement.
Highlighting Stendel’s achievements in leading Barnsley to the Championship last season, they also referenced his experience managing in the Bundesliga with Hannover.
“While it has taken some time for this process to reach its conclusion we firmly believe Daniel is the right man to take the club forward,” it said.
“Everyone at Tynecastle welcomes Daniel and hopes his appointment heralds an exciting new era for the Club as we look to climb back up the Ladbrokes Premiership table.”
Stendel’s appointment brings to an end Austin McPhee’s time in charge as caretaker boss.
The Scot still has ambitions to become the club’s sporting director but was philosophical about what the future holds for him.
“You are managing with one hand behind your back,” he said.
“You are not the ultimate authority and you need to manage relationships and I’ve managed to do that.
“I’m sure the new manager will have his own ideas.
“When the dust settles, Ann Budge and the new manager and a decision on my future will be made to see if and where my skills are best served.”