Defiant Budge turns on critics of wage cuts

Tynecastle chief says shutdown could be six months

She said: “I asked all employees to stand together to ensure we can survive the next few months. Their response has been amazing. Most of the staff agreed immediately.

“Given the added complexities around players’ contracts and the wide range of personal circumstances, a number of players are still reviewing their situations. However, I believe we will reach a good outcome as I know they want to do what they can to support the club.

“We have consulted with a wide range of senior employees and managers and we have communicated fully to all staff in an open and transparent manner.

“I did so quickly, not to create panic, but to give everyone time to plan and consider their own circumstances. Cost-cutting is going to come and I see no point in sugar-coating this news.”

Budge added: “Much has been made of an email, sent by our head of player recruitment, to agents with regard to potential recruitment requirements once football resumes. We must continue to plan for football returning and make sure we are in the strongest possible position possible when that happens.

“I would however like to make it clear there is no pot of money sitting in the bank that could be going towards player or employee wages and there is certainly no intention of paying transfers fees.”

Budge revealed that

Hearts would be asking their supporters to renew their season tickets in the coming days even though it is unclear when the 2019/20 campaign will finish and what league they will be playing in.

“We will be putting season tickets on sale as soon as we can,” she said. “Obviously, we are constrained in a number of ways, not least the uncertainty surrounding which division we will be playing in, when this season will end and when next season will start.

“I want to thank all of those supporters who have indicated that they are keen to support us in this way.”