Hearts boss Robbie Neilson 'surprised and disappointed' by Shaun Maloney's Hibs sacking

Former HIbs manager Shaun Maloney has received backing from an unexpected source, after capital derby rival Robbie Neilson expressed surprise and disappointment at the brevity of his counterpart’s Easter Road tenure.

It was arguably Neilson’s side who sealed Maloney’s fate with back to back derby victories denying the Leith outfit a place in the top six, and a shot at European qualification, as well as progress into the Scottish Cup final.

But despite bringing Hibs’ season to a miserable halt, Neilson was taken aback by the news the board had opted to sack their manager just four months after his appointment.

“To be honest, I was surprised and, on a personal note, I was disappointed for Shaun because I know him pretty well.

“I spoke to him a few times when I was Dundee United manager and I think he is a really good coach. But it is the nature of the beast now. It’s just the way it is.

“He got very limited time to do anything, but the chairman makes a decision and you just have to take it on the chin.

“I’m sure he’ll come back stronger. I was the same at MK Dons when I got let go. It can hurt for a while, but it definitely makes you a better coach.”

While Maloney was ousted so soon into his three-and-a-half-year contract, Hearts are reaping the rewards of sticking by Neilson, even after last season’s ignominious cup defeat to Brora Rangers.

Back in the Premiership, they have earned a third-place finish and are guaranteed European football into December. And, they could yet wrap up a wonderful season by lifting silverware next month.

“Football is about two sides. It’s about long-term planning and having to win on a Saturday.

“If there’s a balance, it’s my job is to win on Saturday, but the people above me, their job is to