CELTIC last night described the SPFL’s decision to order them to play their Betfred Cup semi-final against Hearts at Murrayfield on Sunday, October 28 as “irrational and discriminatory”, as manager Brendan Rodgers insisted the home of  Scottish Rugby, where the Edinburgh side played four ‘home’ matches last season cannot be seen to be a neutral venue.

Having originally been asked to take part in a 7.45pm kick-off in Mount Florida, the Celtic hierarchy reacted with fury last night after being told to kick off at 1.30pm at Murrayfield, with the day’s other semi-final, Rangers versus Aberdeen,staying at Hampden with a 4.30pm kick off.

They had argued that a ballot should be held to determine which match moved to Edinburgh, but that request was rebuffed by the SPFL board, with Parkhead chief executive Peter Lawwell recusing himself from any part in the final decision, as is customary.

“The SPFL board’s decision not to hold a ballot to decide the venues of the forthcoming semi- final matches is both irrational and discriminatory,” read the statement, about an affair which began when league bosses originally pencilled in the semi-finals for Saturday and Sunday slots at Hampden just days after both Celtic and Rangers are in Europa League action.

“We understand those bodies consulted, including the police and broadcasters, had no preference whatsoever on which match should take place at each venue.

“The SPFL board have been unable to produce logic or reason for turning down our modest request.

“Instead, they have arbitrarily decided that a chosen game should stay at Hampden and the other should go to Murrayfield.

“The interests of our club and supporters have been subordinated to a diktat from the SPFL board which is as unfair as it was unnecessary.”