Ogilvie said no to job offer to stay with Hearts

CAMPBELL Ogilvie, Hearts' managing director, has underlined his commitment to the Tynecastle club by revealing he has turned down an opportunity to leave Tynecastle.

Ogilvie, who celebrates a three-year anniversary at Tynecastle this week after a previous, 27-year period at Rangers, sought to allay fears over the long-term health of the Edinburgh outfit by insisting he is fully committed to the cause.

Vladimir Romanov's ownership style may have prompted controversy in certain quarters, yet Ogilvie remains fully behind the Lithuanian tycoon.

"People inside this club; the staff, the management, players and the supporters, I enjoy working with them," Ogilvie said. "I had the chance to leave here for another club about a year ago, when you could say that things were a bit rocky and it would maybe have led to a quieter life, but I am still here.

"I am not saying there are loads of jobs out there for me but I did have the opportunity to go.

"There is a warmth to this club, though."

Speaking exclusively to The Scotsman in a wide-ranging interview, Ogilvie also emphasised his wish to see Hearts play Europa Cup football – that tournament will replace the Uefa Cup next season – at Tynecastle.

He added: "My personal view would be that we should play at Tynecastle and I will make that representation to the board ahead of the Uefa licensing process in February."

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Ogilvie offers heartfelt defence of Romanov and predicts bright future