Hibs players issue apology
16 Apr 2007 - 16:54:50
Hibernian's first-team squad have issued a public apology and reaffirmed their support for manager John Collins following rumours of player unrest at Easter Road.
A delegation of unhappy players reportedly met with club chairman Rod Petrie to voice their displeasure at training methods and team selection in the build-up to last weekend's Scottish Cup semi-final meeting with Dunfermline.
But following clear the air talks with Collins - who was only appointed manager of the SPL club in October - captain Rob Jones has issued an apology and insists the players are fully behind the manager.
"We apologise to the management, supporters and board of the club for any distress or embarrassment that has been caused," confirmed Jones in a statement.
"The first-team squad met with the manager and assistant manager today.
"The meeting was very positive and I am speaking for the squad when I say that we are all very happy with the outcome.
"We will not be going into detail about the content of that meeting - that should stay in the dressing-room.
"However, we would like to take the opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the club and state our 100 per cent backing for the management team.
"While we accept that the actions of the players have generated a huge amount of media interest, as a squad we were deeply disappointed that someone chose to make the issue public.
"While we understand that, we believe it is important to set the record straight in one important regard.
"At no point did the players ask for, or seek in any way, the removal of the management.
"I would like to reassure everyone that this will never happen again as long as I am in the dressing-room."