Hearts Foundation call for “highest” refereeing standard as title showdown awaits
Gerry Mallon, chairman of the Foundation of Hearts, has voiced concerns over recent refereeing decisions and hopes Saturday’s title race finale with Celtic is decided by the players rather than officiating. The chair released a statement following a dramatic round of fixtures on Wednesday, with Celtic awarded a last-gasp penalty to prevail at Fir Park with three precious points. The foundation hailed the incredible work that Derek McInnes and his side have achieved this season, collating a club record 80 points with one game remaining. “All of us at the Foundation of Hearts congratulate our magnificent team and manager, Derek McInnes, on their outstanding achievements in this momentous season, and urge all Heart of Midlothian supporters to get right behind them for Saturday’s final game of the campaign.” Kelechi Iheanacho’s ice-cool penalty immediately sparked debates all across world football. Many fans are split over the handball call on Sam Nicholson, a decision which could prove costly in Hearts’ title challenge. “We have, however, been extremely concerned by a number of refereeing and VAR decisions across the last two rounds of fixtures, which have had a significant impact on outcomes for Hearts and others. “That this has occurred at such a crucial stage of the season is particularly disappointing. We understand that the club shares these concerns and has made representations to the football authorities seeking clarification on recent decisions. “At a time when Scottish football is subject to heightened scrutiny, both nationally and internationally, it is important that confidence in officiating standards is maintained.” A jaw-dropping title race reaches its climax Saturday afternoon at Celtic Park. The prospect is tantalising, but the foundation hope that this remarkable Scottish Premiership season will be decided by the players on the pitch, not the officials in the spotlight. “We therefore call on those responsible for the officiating of Saturday’s match to ensure that the highest standards of decision-making are applied, so that the game is decided by the players on the pitch and the team is given the fair opportunity it has earned.”
Seamus Coleman to Leave Everton After 17 Years
Everton captain Seamus Coleman will leave the club at the end of this season after 17 years in Merseyside. The 37-year-old signed in 2009 from Sligo Rovers for £60,000, and has went on to play more times in the Premier League than any other Everton player in history. The Irishman has been offered a deal to stay on as part of David Moyes coaching staff, but will weigh up his options in the summer. He told Everton’s official website: “After more than 17 years at this great football club, I’ve decided this season will be my last as a player here. “I want to thank the fans for their unbelievable support. You’ve helped me in more ways than you could imagine. I’ve always tried my best to put Everton Football Club first and you all mean the world to me. I live in the city – I see you all daily – and I’ve taken your love of the Football Club back into the dressing room to explain to the lads how much Everton means to the people. “I also thank my managers, teammates and all the staff at Everton. They’ve seen me happy, sad, angry, emotional, but the greater cause has always been Everton Football Club. Thank you for making me a better captain and teammate. It’s an incredible football club with incredible people. “Obviously, after such a big decision, I want to have some time over the summer to focus on what’s next for me and my family. My love for Everton is something you all know about – and I’ve got a huge love for Ireland as well. “The Club have been unbelievable with me. They’ve offered me an opportunity to stay on at the Football Club. The manager and staff have been great, and I think with it being such an important decision over my future, I’m going to take a nice, long holiday and look back on what has been an amazing time as an Everton footballer.” Manager David Moyes signed Coleman in his first stint as Toffees manager, and the Scotsman spoke very highly of the man who has made 433 total appearances for Everton so far. Moyes also told the website: “It’s virtually impossible to put into words what I think of Seamus Coleman and the impact he’s had at this Club. “To represent Everton at the highest level for 17 years is a remarkable achievement and, speaking as his manager over two spells, it has been a genuine privilege to watch him grow as a player, a leader, and a man. “I know it’s going to be incredibly difficult to replace the characteristics Seamus brings to this Club. His influence behind the scenes is hard to measure and explain. He’s hugely respected by everyone, and we will miss his presence, on and off the pitch. “He deserves to have a special place in the Club’s history, but also in the hearts of every Evertonian because he embodies everything this Club stands for every time he pulls on the shirt. “I must also give huge credit to the people who were instrumental in bringing Seamus here in the first place. “To sign a player for £60,000 from Ireland, and to see him go on to make well over 400 appearances in the first-team, demonstrates just how important good recruitment is. “We wish Seamus all the very best in whatever he decides to do next, and he knows there will always be a place here for him if he chooses to return in the future.” Coleman’s farewell to the Evertonians could come in their final home clash of the season this Sunday to Sunderland, with a potential final ever appearance possibly coming away to Tottenham Hotspur the week after.
