Kenichi jumps to defence of under-fire Preko, Nassam

Former Hearts coach Kenichi Yatsuhasi has jumped to the defence of beleaguered backroom pair Yaw Preko and Nassam Yakubu over sabotage claims.

According to multiple reports in the media, both Preko and Yakubu have hatched up a plan to sabotage the work of newly-appointed trainer Sergio Traguil.

The pair are reported to be unhappy with the appointment of the Portuguese after building a close affinity with dismissed coach Kenichi Yatsuhashi.

Reports have suggested newly appointed video analyst and scout Elton Nunez will deputize for his compatriot.

But Yatsuhashi, who has returned to his Japan, after ending his association with Hearts, has heaped praise on the duo in the midst of the storm.

Hearts want to give the newly-appointed a fresh backroom staff over the bizzare episode.

It's unclear what might have precipitated the latest stand-off with officials remaining tight-lipped on the mounting reports.

Hearts take on Aduana Stars in a top-liner of Ghana's Premier League fixture on Sunday.