Stenhousemuir manager Marvin Bartley has not spoken to Livingston sporting director David Martindale since resigning from the West Lothian club at end of last season. The two sides meet in the Scottish Championship on Friday, live on BBC Scotland.

Back in May, Bartley and assistant Neil Hastings resigned after being asked to reapply for their positions. The former Hibernian and Bournemouth midfielder took charge at Almondvale in January, stepping up once Martindale moved into a new role. Bartley admitted he was "really, really shocked" by the situation but has since moved on, with his full focus on Stenhousemuir.

Stenhousemuir are unbeaten after nine matches this season, sitting atop the Championship after three wins and a draw. Bartley's side have beaten Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Motherwell, with Hearts up next in the League Cup quarter-final. Appointed when Gary Naysmith left for Ayr United, Bartley oversees a part-time squad defying expectations.

Before facing Hearts, they host Glenn Whelan's Livingston, who have won two and lost two league matches. Bartley remains cautious about promotion talk despite Stenny's remarkable start, noting financial constraints compared to rival clubs. Chairman Calvin Ford sent Bartley a "lovely message" after Stenny edged Livi on penalties in the League Cup at Ochilview.