Robbie Neilson happy to put faith in youth as Neil Alexander hits out
Tuesday 21 June 2016 18:29, UK
Robbie Neilson has said he will always act in the best interests of Hearts after Neil Alexander had hit out over his departure from Tynecastle.
Alexander, 38, says he is looking forward to a new challenge at Aberdeen after signing a one-year contract at Pittodrie but the goalkeeper was upset at the way his two-year association with Hearts came to an end.
The Hearts head coach says he understands Alexander's reaction but has elected to put his faith in youth this season, in the shape of Scotland U21 goalkeeper Jack Hamilton.
Neilson told Sky Sports News HQ: "When a player leaves a club the size of Hearts, there is always going to be disappointment but at that point I had made a decision about what I wanted to do with Jack Hamilton.
"I just felt it was the right thing to do for the club. These things happen in football and I just want to wish Neil all the best. He is still a very good goalkeeper and I'm sure he will do very well for Aberdeen this season.
"But we have to focus on Hearts and Jack Hamilton will be our No 1 this season and he is ready to make the move up.
"My job is to make a decision for the betterment of the football club and for the football team. You can't keep everyone happy all the time but as I said Neil goes with our best wishes."
Alexander, who made 40 appearances for Hearts last season, said: "There was never any issues, it was just a case of getting the contract finalised, drawn up and getting it signed. We were at that point and it was just taken off the table.
The manager had his reasons, it is not for me to discuss. He told me the reasons - whether I agreed or disagreed, that was it. He had made his mind up, he firmly set it out that it was his decision.
"It is disappointing. I felt I had had two really good two seasons to be honest, working with the manager every day in the office, being one of the coaching staff.
"I am disappointed not to be there but I am really grateful to the manager here at Aberdeen for giving me the opportunity to stay and play at a high level."
