Hearts under scrutiny as captain Shankland addresses recent controversy
Hearts striker and captain Lawrence Shankland has responded publicly to growing criticism surrounding the club’s recent Player of the Year awards night, which came just a day after head coach Neil Critchley and assistant Mike Garrity were sacked. The club, currently struggling in the Premiership’s bottom six, has installed first-team coach Liam Fox as interim manager for the second time this season, ahead of a crucial match against Ross County.
Shankland came under fire for his reaction to questions from Sky Sports at the awards event. When asked about Critchley’s departure and whether the players held any responsibility, he simply smirked and stayed silent, which some interpreted as dismissive. Speaking later at the club’s training base in Riccarton, Shankland clarified that he meant no disrespect and reached out personally to Critchley to explain.
“The timing wasn’t ideal,” Shankland admitted. “I’ve never been in a situation like that with cameras in my face, and looking back, I can see how it came across. But I spoke to Neil that day and again afterwards – he had no issue with it, which mattered most to me.”
He emphasized that the players must take some responsibility for the coaching change, calling it a difficult but necessary conversation. “It’s not a nice feeling because you know your performances contributed to someone losing their job,” he said, adding praise for Critchley and Garrity as professionals and people.
Hearts had advised staff and players not to speak with media at the EICC, which contributed to the awkward interactions. “That was a club instruction, and maybe it would’ve been better to say something briefly,” Shankland reflected. “But the most important thing was ensuring Neil and Mick understood my position – and they did.”
Only chairwoman Ann Budge commented before the event, downplaying the managerial change by saying, “That was yesterday’s news. I’m going in here now.”
Interim boss Liam Fox acknowledged the unfortunate timing of the awards event, stating, “The night was meant to celebrate individual achievements, but we can’t ignore the reality. It hasn’t been a good season.”
With Hearts sitting eighth in the table, just five points clear of Ross County who occupy the relegation play-off spot, Fox didn’t shy away from the club’s precarious position. “We are in a battle – I’m not going to sugarcoat it,” he said. “The players know it, and it’s about producing when it counts, starting this Saturday.”
The club is now actively searching for a permanent manager, though Fox confirmed his focus remains on securing vital points. “I’ve had limited communication – just enough to prepare for the weekend. What matters most now is climbing out of this situation. The rest is up to those above me.”
