sport

Barr keeping focus on football

Hearts star Darren Barr will continue to focus on football rather than finance despite the prospect of more SPL action.

Hearts were on Monday "reprimanded and warned" over late payments to some players and coaching staff in September, and face another SPL hearing on Wednesday over a similar offence this month.

The club say the issue has been dealt with - manager John McGlynn and six affected players got payments a week late - but a second offence could bring greater punishment.

However, Hearts brushed off the issue with a 1-0 win over Motherwell on Sunday, just as they did on several occasions last season, and Barr will continue to concentrate on football.

"That's all we can focus on," he said. "I know there is a lot of speculation and things going on but all we can do is think about getting three points because the gaffer and fans have been patient with us.

"We want to give something back and it's all about getting three points.

"It's just one of these things. All our focus is on getting three points and that should care of itself."

The SPL did not take into account the four delays last season, given the rule in question was introduced in the summer.

The club remains under an automatic transfer embargo with the sanction due to be reviewed by the committee on Thursday.

SPL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: "I think it's important we don't prejudge anything and hear what Hearts have to say. We don't know whether the charge is being admitted yet.

"So rather than prejudge the outcome of any hearing, I think it's important we sit down with a clear mind on Wednesday and judge any evidence on its merits."