Robert Snodgrass 'gutted' by Hearts exit and promises to tell his story

Robert Snodgrass has sent a message to Hearts fans about his departure from the club, saying he was “emotionally attached”, didn’t want to leave, and vowing to tell his “side of the story” in the future.

The Tynecastle club released the veteran midfielder from his contract last week, days after manager Robbie Neilson had been sacked and after Steven Naismith assumed responsibility for the first team.

The former Scotland international had moved to Hearts in September after leaving Luton Town, with Neilson saying his experience would be vital for the team.

Snodgrass played 25 games across all competitions, scoring once, but left after a series of Premiership defeats saw the team lose their grip on third place in the league table.

Interim manager Naismith had explained the decision as being best for Snodgrass after telling the player that “he’s probably not going to get many minutes”.

A week after leaving, Snodgrass took to social media to say that he was unhappy to have been released at a time when the team should “stick together.

Snodgrass wrote: “Just want to thank Hearts for giving me the opportunity to pull on the jersey, and play back in the Scottish game.

“Big thanks to the fans for making me feel loved again, your support has been superb home and away.

“I would like to thank Robbie Neilson and Lee McCulloch for bringing me to Hearts and allowing me to play football in a really good team.

“I was emotionally attached and determined for us to kick on. The previous 6 weeks had been a real challenge for us all.

“But that’s when a team sticks together, digs in and fights for the guy next to you.

“I was in for the fight and desperate for third place but that chance was sadly taken away from me. It’s left me gutted and disappointed.

@JamTarts 👇❤️ pic.twitter.com/PqTCH8tvWd
— Robert snodgrass (@robsnodgrass7) April 20, 2023

His message continued: “I wish the club all the best for the rest of the season. I loved working with a great set of boys, helping and developing the younger boys’ game.

“The amount of positive texts I’ve received from the dressing room leaves me no doubt I’ve made friends for life.

“I will definitely tell my side of the story but right now isn’t the appropriate moment, out of respect to my team and the supporters.

“The focus has to be on third place. Hope the boys smash it.”