Hibernian defender Darren McCormack has been charged over an alleged assault on Hearts striker Calum Elliot in the early hours of Sunday morning. A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said: "A 20-year-old has been arrested and charged in connection with an alleged assault in George Street on March 22.

"He was released to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date."

The incident is reported to have taken place close to the city's Why Not nightclub.

Hibernian confirmed McCormack had been charged and released a club statement which said: "It would not be appropriate to comment further on any action that may or may not be taken through due legal process.

"The club takes an extremely serious view of such incidents and will take internal disciplinary action as appropriate."

A Hearts spokesman added: "We can confirm that one of our players has reported an incident to the club that took place on Sunday morning in Edinburgh.

"The club has no further comment to make at this stage."