Foundation of Hearts chairman Stuart Wallace has urged supporters not to lose focus in their bid to achieve supporter ownership amid a woeful run of form on the park.
The 8,000 strong fans group are on course to buy-out owner Ann Budge’s 75.1 per cent shareholding next year having already ploughed a staggering £9 million into the club.
However, some fans have threatened to cancel their monthly pledge to the FoH in protest over Budge continuing to show faith in embattled manager Craig Levein.
Ahead of Sunday’s derby at Hibs, the Gorgie outfit currently sit bottom of the Premiership and have failed to win any of their previous 12 league matches.
However, Wallace insists fans turning their back on the Foundation could be damaging.
Wallace, who also sit on the Hearts board, said: “What we should remember is that talk of cancelling pledges is not only potentially harmful to our club, but also plays right into the hands of those rivals who want us to fail.
“We are happy to let you know that we have more pledgers now than we did three months ago.
“That tells you everything you need to know about the commitment and resilience of Hearts fans.
“Times may be tough, but the Foundation continues to move forward towards fan ownership, thanks to you, the fans – the one true constant.
“The Foundation has received more than £9m in pledges.
“We’re in the process of repaying the Bidco loan with £1.9m, 74% of the required £2.5m, now having been advanced to Bidco.
“We expect to have made our final payment toward this loan iwithin the next year and, upon doing so, we will acquire a majority share in the Club.
“Each and every pledge continues to be precious as we approach this milestone and we’re grateful for your incredible support.”
