Hearts chairman calls for greater transparency on key decisions

What the report says

Heart of Midlothian chairman Calum Paterson has used a club media interview to urge “greater transparency and consistency” in key Scottish football decisions after last season’s dramatic title race ended in disappointment for the Edinburgh side. Speaking as he marked his first year in post, Paterson said Hearts were frustrated by how the closing stages of the campaign were handled, particularly the scheduling that left the side who had led the league for long stretches with their final match away from home.

Hearts topped the Scottish Premiership for 250 days but finished second, two points behind Celtic, after a final-day loss at Celtic Park. Paterson said the late-game circumstances were unacceptable from the club’s perspective and that Hearts had made their concerns known to the football authorities. The SPFL had previously explained its fixture planning, saying Celtic’s post-split home-game balance differed from Hearts’ and that safety restrictions ruled out certain derby arrangements on the final day.

Paterson also praised the players and staff for coming close to ending decades of Old Firm dominance, saying they deserved better after an exceptional season. He said Hearts want to improve their communication with supporters and focus on putting the club in the strongest position for this season and beyond.

He also confirmed ongoing discussions about possible investment at Tynecastle and said the search for a new chief executive is progressing, with “very strong candidates” in the process.