Hearts boss Derek McInnes could yet be sanctioned for his comments in the aftermath of Celtic’s last-gasp victory away at Motherwell.
But any potential disciplinary probe would not be fast-tracked, meaning McInnes is clear to be in the dugout for Saturday’s title showdown at Parkhead.
McInnes was incensed by the decision to award Celtic a 96th-minute penalty after a clash between Sam Nicholson and Auston Trusty.
Referee John Beaton was referred to the pitchside monitor by VAR Andrew Dallas and duly pointed to the spot, despite the replays being inconclusive at best.
Kelechi Iheanacho stepped up to score and snatch a 3-2 victory for Celtic, with the title race now set to be decided on the final day.
McInnes branded Celtic’s penalty award against Motherwell ‘disgusting’
McInnes branded the decision as ‘disgusting’, before adding: ‘We are up against everybody. I don’t think it’s a penalty.’
His comments could yet land him in hot water with the SFA’s compliance officer, but Daily Mail Sport understands any further action would not come until after the end of the season.
The SFA’s Judicial Panel Protocol, under Rule No 72 and Article of Association 96.1, states the following;
‘No recognised football body, club, official, team official or other member of team staff, player or other person under the jurisdiction of the Scottish FA, shall in an interview, a ‘blog’ on the internet, on a social networking or micro- blogging site, or in any other manner calculated or likely to lead to publicity (i) criticise the Decision(s) and/or performance(s) of any or all match official(s) in such a way as to indicate bias or incompetence on the part of such match official; or (ii) make remarks about such match official(s) which impinge on his character.
Motherwell’s Sam Nicholson was penalised for handball in stoppage time against Celtic
‘For the avoidance of doubt this Rule applies (i) whether reported to the Scottish FA by a match official for Misconduct or otherwise, and (ii) where remarks are brought to the Scottish FA’s attention, or of which the Scottish FA becomes aware, by whatever manner or means.
‘There shall be a presumption that any material published in such manner was published in the name of and/or with the authority of the person or body bearing to have published the material.’
McInnes did not explicitly imply bias or incompetence, but the decision on whether to take it any further will ultimately rest with the compliance officer.
After beating Falkirk 3-0 on Wednesday night, McInnes now takes his Hearts team to Parkhead on Saturday knowing that a point will be enough to see them crowned champions.
