Rudi Skacel takes bitter Celtic swipe after dramatic Hearts title heartbreak

The former Tynecastle midfielder had spent time around Derek McInnes’ squad during the title run-in and was convinced Hearts had what it took to finish the job.

They travelled to Celtic Park knowing a draw would be enough to become champions and appeared on course to do exactly that when Lawrence Shankland opened the scoring.

However, Celtic produced a dramatic response to win 3-1 and retain the title, leaving Skacel devastated by the outcome.

Skacel backed Hearts to get over the line after seeing McInnes’ squad up close.

He told the Daily Record: “I think they deserve to win. I had a chance to see the team train and I spoke with the gaffer. I feel like the team looked strong mentally. They have a good relationship among them. I think they deserve to win.

“Unfortunately, they didn’t. When they came back from Celtic Park, I felt sick. I bumped my heart like I was one of them there. I was really disappointed. I think it was a big loss for Scottish football as well.”