Stephen Robinson insists he did not put his name forward for the vacant Hearts job in 2019.
The former Motherwell boss was heavily tipped to become Craig Levein's successor and it was reported he was Ann Budge's first choice.
Austin MacPhee was appointed as caretaker boss before Daniel Stendel took over on a permanent basis in December 2019 as the Jambos were relegated to the Championship during the curtailed season.
Robinson resigned as Motherwell manager saying he had taken the Stelelmen as far as he could.
And since his exit he has now opened up about those Hearts rumours, making it clear he did not try to force his way to the Jambos, nor did he interview for the vacant role.
Robinson claims he found out from a conversation with Austin MacPhee that agents, who weren't his own, had put his name in the mix for the role.
He told Not The Old Firm: "The only job I ever interviewed for was the Northern Ireland job but I didn’t think it was the right time to take it. Michael O’Neill had achieved things that weren’t sustainable so that was going to be a really difficult job.
“My agent did not put my name in for clubs that I was linked with but other agents did. I only found that out later through Austin MacPhee and people like that. People believe what they read but I did not speak to those clubs. Opportunism is the word I think of. The only body I spoke to was Northern Ireland.”
Robinson is looking to get back into management but wants to ensure he makes the correct decision with his next move.
However, he would be open to staying in Scotland if the right opportunity presents itself after a successful spell at Fir Park.
He added: “I love Scottish football and it doesn’t get the credit it deserves. I think the product is very good but some decision making at the top level could be a lot better and could help it.
“I am by no means comfortable in life with money so I have to work. But I am in a position to choose the right job, hopefully. But obviously Scotland is something I definitely wouldn’t rule out. I live here and I’m based here.
“I was in England throughout my playing career so I know the ups and downs in both England and Scotland, but beggars can’t be choosers. If the right opportunity comes up, whether that’s abroad, England, Scotland, you have to look at it."
