Beattie confirms departure

HEARTS’ Scottish Cup hero Craig Beattie has played his last game for the Edinburgh side after rejecting a cut-price offer to remain at the club.

The Tynecastle outfit were keen to hold on to the 28-year-old striker but due to budget cuts, the club could not offer the player acceptable terms.

Beattie became a Hearts cult hero in just three months after signing a short-term deal last season.

Having been snapped up by departed boss Paulo Sergio in February, the former Celtic and Swansea man scored four goals in nine games including the opener in a 2-0 win over Hibs in March.

Beattie’s manic topless Hampden celebration after netting the last-gasp penalty which defeated Celtic in the Scottish Cup semi-final is also assured of a place in Jambo folklore. His last appearance was as a late substitute in the 5-1 Cup final demolition of Hibs in May.

Beattie’s agent, Scott Fisher, said: “Craig had an absolutely fantastic time at Hearts but he will not be there next season.

“They certainly wanted him, but unfortunately when Hearts told us the terms we were miles apart. Craig is not looking for a fortune but the numbers put forward by Hearts were not acceptable.”

Beattie will now choose between continuing his career south of the border or trying his luck abroad.