Hearts boss Gary Locke hopes news that the Foundation of Hearts has been granted preferred bidder status by administrators is the first major step in the club’s road to recovery.
BDO confirmed yesterday that the fans group hoping to buy the troubled Edinburgh outfit are now in the driving seat for a takeover after putting together what they described as a credible attempt to save Hearts.
The news was welcomed by Locke, who hailed Thursday as “a big day” for the Gorgie club following the latest developments.
He said: “It’s great news, fantastic news. I know it’s a big ask again because the fans have been unbelievable and it’s asking them to put their hands in their pockets once more but if they can all come on board, it will certainly leave the club in a stronger position.
“We’ve still got a long way to go but now we know the Foundation is preferred bidder. They are Hearts people and have the club at heart.
“It’s the news that myself and all the playing staff and staff behind the scenes were looking forward to hearing. It’s a big day for the football club and hopefully now we can move forward.”
On the field, Hearts head to Firhill tonight for the Scottish Premiership game against Partick Thistle and will be without experienced Ryan Stevenson after he suffered medial ligament damage against Hibs.