Hibs boss Paul Heckingbottom awaits fate over post-derby outburst

The SFA is aware of Paul Heckingbottom's BBC interview. Picture: Craig Foy/SNS

Heckingbottom accused fourth official Gavin Duncan of swearing at him during the 1-1 draw between Hibs and Hearts at Easter Road and said if they were anywhere else, he would have “knocked his teeth out”.

Due to the nature of the potential offence, it is not governed by Fast Track rules and Heckingbottom may have to wait a few days to learn his fate from the SFA compliance officer Clare Whyte, who will consider whether to take action or not. Referee Craig Thomson must file his match report by today.

Kilmarnock manager Steve Clarke was not served a notice of complaint until last Thursday following his outburst about referee Steven McLean’s performance in the previous Saturday’s defeat by Aberdeen.

He has decided to appeal the charge having been cited for an alleged breach of Rule 72 that relates to interviews and impinging on someone’s character. This could be the offence Heckingbottom is charged with following his out-of-character comments in an interview with BBC Scotland directly after his side had been held to a draw by Hearts, who scored a late equaliser through Uche Ikpeazu. The head coach refused to expand on what he said in a later press conference with reporters.

Celtic skipper Scott Brown was recently charged for an alleged breach of rule 77, which requires all football staff to “act in the best interests of Association Football”, after his conduct following his side’s 2-1 win over Rangers last month. He appealed and won his case last week.

l Hibs midfielder Stevie Mallan was a double winner at the club’s Player of the Year Awards dinner. The 23-year-old was voted Player of the Year and also the Players’ Player of the Year. Defender Ryan Porteous, 20, was named Young Player of the Year.