In a surprising revelation from the BBC’s ‘Czar of Hearts’ series, former Hearts owner Vladimir Romanov has lifted the lid on how he successfully blocked Craig Gordon’s potential move to Celtic in 2006, eight years before the Scotland international would eventually join the Hoops.

Romanov’s Bold Intervention

Romanov claims that, in 2006, Celtic made a move to sign Gordon, who had been a standout performer for Hearts. The then 23-year-old goalkeeper was fast becoming one of the most sought-after talents in British football, but Romanov wasn’t ready to let him leave just yet.

In the interview, Romanov revealed that he told Gordon: “I told him, ‘Your contract is running out and I know Celtic has made you an offer, but you’ll end up being their second-choice goalkeeper, not the first.’”

Romanov went further, trying to convince Gordon to stay at Tynecastle, even offering him a blank contract, saying, “If you stay and sign with us, I promise you’ll play in the English league.” The promise was bold, but it worked—Gordon laughed it off, not taking Romanov seriously. However, the Hearts owner’s persistence paid off when he added, “Here’s a blank contract. Write down the amount you want.”

A Delicate Talent to Handle

Despite his offer of financial security, Romanov wasn’t blind to Gordon’s unusual personality. Romanov stated, “Gordon had incredible abilities, but he required a very careful approach. Psychologically, he was weak – if things didn’t go well, he’d get physically sick, sometimes even vomit.”

Romanov continued, explaining that Gordon’s talent was undeniable, but his mental resilience was a challenge. “He needed delicate handling,” he said. It’s clear that Romanov recognised Gordon’s potential but knew the player needed the right environment to thrive.

The Big Move to Sunderland

Eventually, Gordon would leave Hearts in 2007 for Sunderland in a British record £9 million transfer fee. The decision to stay in Scotland for a few more years worked out for both Gordon and Hearts, with the club benefiting financially when Gordon eventually moved south.

While Gordon’s potential move to Celtic was blocked at the time, it would eventually materialise in 2014, when he joined the Hoops after a spell at Sunderland. He would go on to win multiple trophies at Celtic, including league titles and domestic cups, solidifying his legacy as one of Scotland’s best goalkeepers.

Romanov’s decision may have been controversial at the time, but it seems to have worked out for everyone in the end. As for Gordon, he’d go on to cement his place as Scotland’s No.1 and enjoy a successful career in both club and international football.