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McInnes dismisses fixture anger as Hearts eye title showdown

BBC Sport Football •
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Hearts manager Derek McInnes shrugged off fan complaints about the closing fixtures, saying he would be very happy to play the title climax “in a car park” if needed. The club faces three away games in the final five, forcing the league to schedule the decisive match at Celtic Park on the last day. McInnes stressed the team’s focus remains on football, not timetable.

The Scottish Premiership SPFL explained that both Glasgow and Edinburgh sides could not host home games on the final two dates because all fixtures kick off simultaneously, and a city derby on the last day would breach scheduling rules. Consequently, Hearts travel to Celtic, where only about 600 visiting supporters are expected, a modest crowd for a potential title‑deciding showdown.

McInnes acknowledged supporters’ frustration at missing a traditional Saturday 3 pm slot but argued the league’s priority is preserving competitive balance. With Rangers also playing away at Falkirk, the final round promises a dramatic finish if both Hearts and Celtic remain in contention. The manager concluded the season’s climax will still be decided on the pitch, not the calendar.