St Johnstone to defend McKay over Juanma remark

The comments were made after the first game of the season between Hearts and St Johnstone. Picture: Ian Rutherford

The summer signing from Hearts is set to face an SFA disciplinary panel on 3 September after describing his former club’s Spanish striker, Juanma, as a “typical foreigner”, who “gets touched and goes down”.

Saints boss Tommy Wright said: “We will represent him at the meeting and will defend any charges put against him.”

Meanwhile, former Hearts captain Steven Pressley claims the Tynecastle side, who lead the Premiership after winning their first four games since their return to the top flight, are genuine title contenders.

He said: “Both Hearts and  Aberdeen can push Celtic all the way. Hearts in particular have been very creative in the transfer market. They’ve plundered Europe and made some astute signings. Under the guidance of Robbie Neilson they can be a threat.

“Their recruitment has focused on very robust players who can deal with the physicality of the British game and that could be crucial.

“Like Chelsea under Jose Mourinho, Hearts have built a solid foundation and they’ll be able to handle playing in the most difficult venues during the harsh winter months. Every single person at Tynecastle is pulling in the right direction and that’s clear for all to see.”