STEWARTON'S Steven Naismith has shared his 'disappointment' and 'frustration' after his time as Hearts manager was cut short.

The former Kilmarnock and Ranger star was sacked on Sunday following the club's loss to St Mirren.

The Edinburgh side currently sit bottom of the table with just one point from their opening six games of the season.

Naismith was born in Stewarton and still lives in the town, with St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson also a local.

Following his dismissal, Naismith shared a statement on his time as Hearts manager, after moving up from player to coach to gaffer.

He said: "I am disappointed that my time at Heart of Midlothian Football Club has come to an end.

"This season has been a frustrating one for a number of reasons and ultimately it just hasn’t been good enough.

"When you’re at a big club with demands and expectations and you go on a bad run of form - pressure is always going to come.

"I would like to thank everyone associated with Heart of Midlothian, where I have spent nearly eight years of my career.

"The board put faith in me and gave me the opportunity to become a leader of the club and I am truly grateful for that.

"In my opinion the squad of players has lots of potential, even though this season at times we have struggled to get going, I have confidence that they will fulfil their potential.

"I am pleased that in my first year as a head coach I was able to bring a level of success to the club with European football, most league wins in nearly 20 years, most away wins in 32 years, and some good individual performances and results.

"My biggest hope is that from my time at the football club I have helped make people better - whether that was on the pitch or off it.”