Craig Levein has defended Steven Naismith’s x-rated attack on Scott Brown.
The Hearts midfielder waited until the Celtic skipper was grounded and had played the ball before deciding to sink his studs into Brown’s groin.
Referee Bobby Madden and his assistant Willie Conquer both had a clear view of the incident but failed to award a free kick let alone send the Hearts player off.
The SFA Compliance Officer is expected to offer Naismith a two match suspension for the attack on Brown but that is something that Levein will contest.
Levein asked if he would appeal any SFA charge brought against Naismith for tackle on Brown.
“Of course.”
“So you don’t think it was a bad tackle?”
“No.”
Souttar highly unlikely to play against Hibs. Lafferty doubtful. (Both injured)
— Paul Barnes (@STVPaul) May 8, 2018
Naismith committed a slightly less brutal attack on James Forrest shortly afterwards that also went unpunished by the match officials.
Brendan Rodgers is expected to respond to Levein’s comments later today when he previews Celtic’s match with Kilmarnock.
The hoops are expected to rest a number of players for that match, John Beaton will referee the match against Steve Clarke’s side.
