Hearts appear to have called upon Scottish football's governing authorities to take action against Martin O'Neill over his "irresponsible comments" in the wake of last weekend's pitch invasion at Celtic Park. The interim Celtic manager spoke out on talkSPORT radio earlier this week following his side's 3-1 victory in the title decider against the Jambos, insisting that claims of attacks on Hearts players during the mayhem had been greatly exaggerated.

He dismissed Hearts' assertions that the scenes at full-time brought shame upon Scottish football, describing such claims as "nonsense". Tynecastle's hierarchy have now indirectly fired back at the Northern Irishman in their latest statement regarding the chaotic scenes that unfolded last Saturday in Glasgow's East End. The statement - issued just hours after club investor Tony Bloom alleged that players were assaulted - read also made reference to the theories that the match was abandoned, declaring that the pitch invasion "determined the duration of the match" rather than the match officials.

It read: "Heart of Midlothian Football Club would once again like to thank our incredible supporters for their magnificent backing throughout this season, and to provide an update in relation to the events which unfolded at Celtic Park on Saturday.

"As previously noted, the club is investigating events before, during and after the match, and will offer Police Scotland our full support as they continue with their enquiries.

"We have also written to the SFA and SPFL setting out our observations and questions regarding the circumstances surrounding the premature ending of the match, and expressing our concern that a troubling precedent has been set whereby a pitch invasion can effectively determine the duration of a football match, rather than the match officials. We have asked them for a prompt response to the points we have raised.

"The incursion of spectators onto the field of play must never be condoned under any circumstances, and the seriousness of the potential consequences must be fully understood by supporters and clubs alike.

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"We are aware of highly irresponsible comments made publicly this week, which appear to seek to defend those who entered the pitch on Saturday and undermine the gravity of the situation.

"Those remarks carry dangerous implications, and we call upon the football authorities to ensure that this matter is addressed with the seriousness it demands, and with the full cooperation of all involved.

"This has been an excellent season for Heart of Midlothian. However, it represents only the very beginning of our plans for long-term sustained success. We look ahead to next season with confidence, supported as ever by the exceptional backing of our fans, sponsors and partners."