In the 2005-06 season, Heart of Midlothian, under manager George Burley, enjoyed an unbeaten start before Burley was unexpectedly sacked by owner Vladmir Romanov. This controversial decision led to the hiring of Graham Rix, a coach with a troubled past, including a conviction for indecent assault. Romanov's choice, seen as a move to exert control over the club, was heavily criticized. The transition also saw multiple key executives leave the club, indicating instability at Tynecastle as Romanov sought to reshape Heart's future through contentious decisions.
"I said if you make this appointment, all sorts of hell will break loose," remembers Charlie Mann, who worked as a spokesman for Romanov.
"Ultimately, he wanted someone who was a lackey," journalist Mark Donaldson told the Romanov: Czar of Hearts podcast.
"It's like taking a beaten dog and expecting it to love you and behave," said former club director Sergejus Fedotovas.
"I had to take it; I didn't think it at the time, but Romanov obviously thought 'I can manipulate this boy'."
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