Embattled Heart of Midlothian have been handed a transfer embargo amidst their financial problems.
The Edinburgh outfit cannot sign any new players over the age of 21 until February 2014 which has disappointed joint-administrator Trevor Birch.
"The decision to impose a transfer embargo on players over 21 until the end of January is disappointing," he said.
"Whilst I appreciate that the SFA rules state that clubs in administration will face sanctions, Hearts have already had a points deduction and player embargo - and it feels like we're being penalised twice.
"That said, these are the cards that we've been dealt and we'll now just have to get on with it.
"At least the decision gives us clarity and means that the bidders can move forward and focus their attention on refining their proposals rather than worrying about possible sanctions."
