Berra: We deserve the criticism for cup debacle

HEARTS captain Christophe Berra admits the Tynecastle players and management deserve the flak coming their way following the humiliating exit from the Betfred Cup. Boardroom discussions over the future of the under-fire head coach Ian Cathro took place after the Gorgie club became the only Premiership outfit to fall at the group stage. With just eight wins from his 30 games in charge, Cathro’s appointment has been labelled a mistake by some, including former Hearts captain Gary Mackay. And Berra said there can be no complaints over the fierce criticism that followed the defeat to League Two Peterhead and the draw at home with Dunfermline. ‘It’s sport, it’s football, it’s a cut-throat business,’ admitted Berra. ‘If we are not producing the goods,

the management and the players will get stick and it’s well deserved. ‘We could’ve won the Dunfermline game in the end, got through in the competition and there might have been a different outlook on things,’ said Berra, appointed skipper after joining from Ipswich in the summer. ‘I come from Edinburgh, I live in the city centre. I don’t want to get beaten and not do well. I don’t like walking about the town — you feel ashamed. That’s how I take it.’ Asked if growing criticism of Cathro has been unfair, the Scotland defender added: ‘It’s documented what the media and some of the fans think but I can’t speak about that. Football’s all about opinions. ‘Since I’ve been at the club, training has been first class and everything we do with Austin MacPhee and Graham Fox has been well run but we’re not taking that on to the pitch, which is where it counts. ‘I’m captain and need to watch what I say. The players are working hard but we need to do more because we’re not getting the results a club this size, with the squad we have and support we have, should be getting. ‘If you’re not playing well, the Press will give you stick and you need to be thick-skinned. I’m sure the manager is — he says he is. ‘It’s not always nice things that are written about you — unless you’re Celtic and go the season unbeaten. There will be times when things aren’t going well.’ Rangers target Jamie Walker was left out of the team which drew 2-2 with Dunfermline at Tynecastle, before losing on penalties. Declining to get involved, Berra added: ‘Jamie’s a talented player, but the gaffer has his reasons and he makes the final decisions.’ Meanwhile, Hearts announced the sale of Bjorn Johnsen to ADO Den Haag for an undisclosed fee. The 25-year-old scored six goals in 37 appearances.