Celtic boss Tony Mowbray claims Aiden McGeady is not getting the protection from referees he deserves. The Republic of Ireland player has been in impressive form in recent weeks.

"It was a very special performance from Aiden - exceptional," Mowbray told Celtic View. "He was great on the ball, showed great feet and was unbelievably direct at times.

"Aiden created most of our chances with his individual skills but I don't think he is getting the protection his talent deserves. The number of fouls committed on Aiden against Hearts was really too many.

"I don't want to come out in an open press conference and say this because I will be accused of moaning or whingeing but this is the right platform for me to talk about this.

"I feel the officials need to protect the talented footballers because that's what the game needs. We are striving for talented, clever players. That's why people watch football and, if the players aren't being allowed to do that, then the game is in danger."