FORMER Tranent Juniors boss Johnny Harvey said he was “sacked” following a “heated argument” with a committee member.

Harvey (pictured) left his role with the Foresters Park club last Thursday, having only taken on the post in February.

The former Tranent forward had replaced cup-winning manager Calvin Shand but only took charge of a handful of games before the coronavirus halted the East of Scotland Football League season.

The announcement came less than 48 hours after Tranent had drawn 1-1 with Fauldhouse United.

Harvey spoke to Courier Sport last Friday morning and said: “I want to remain professional and cause as little disruption as possible for the players.

“The truth of the matter is I have been sacked.

“I had a heated argument with a committee member in regards to team affairs. Things were said on both sides and, if I’m honest, I’m not proud of the way I handled myself.

“However it wasn’t all one way, I gave as good as I got.

“As far as I am concerned the matters I was having to explain should be purely down to a manager.

“I am happy to answer questions in regards to poor results or performances.

“But I am not justifying each decision that I make.

“That isn’t the way Tranent works, unfortunately, and that is their prerogative.”

The surprise announcement was made on Thursday afternoon.

David Innes, chairman of Tranent Juniors, said in a statement: “Team manager Johnny Harvey has left his position with immediate effect.

“The club would like to thank Johnny and his staff for their efforts during these uncertain times.”

Tranent had been due to play Bonnyrigg Rose on Saturday but the game was cancelled due to injuries in the Foresters Park squad.

Former Haddington Athletic boss Harvey had taken on the role after time out from the game after departing Berwick Rangers.

In February, he had vowed to do all he could to deliver promotion to his hometown club and take them into the fifth tier of Scottish football, the Scottish Lowland Football League.

The season was brought to a premature halt with the Belters sitting fourth in the East of Scotland Football League Premier Division.

Harvey had been busy during the extended close season and strengthened the squad with the signings of centre-half Gary Hamilton, veteran Craig Hume, midfielders Ali Smith and Rhys Craigie and a familiar face in the return of striker Kayne Paterson.

Adam Watson had also turned his loan move from Edinburgh City into a permanent deal.

Harvey said: “I loved my time working with the players: I genuinely feel I built up a good bond with the majority of the squad.

“We were really having positive results on the training field and you could see that developing on the pitch.

“I wish them nothing but the best for the future.”