Employment law rescues fined Hearts players

The Sunday Herald reports that three Hearts players who were fined for their part in a mass brawl in the tunnel after a match at Hamilton in December have had their punishments annulled after their club failed to adhere to Scottish Premier League protocol and employment law.

Suso Santana, Ian Black and Eggert Jonsson were reported by referee David Somers after Hearts’ 2-1 defeat and were all disciplined by the club.

Upon notification of the sanctions, all three players enlisted the help of the players’ union and its lawyers, who were then able to assist them and ultimately help get the fines revoked, saving the players more than £10,000.

PFA Scotland spokesman Fraser Wishart told the Sunday Herald: "Through our efforts, players are becoming more aware that they have the same rights as any employee under employment law. PFA Scotland will continue to ensure that our members are given their entitlement to due process, confidentiality and appeal if required. Clubs cannot simply impose discipline upon players without adhering to the law."