Caretaker accused of 'punch' but faces exit

14 April 2012

Hearts caretaker coach Eduard Malofeev last night stood accused of punching an official - but could yet cheat SFA justice by escaping back to Lithuania.

Sportsmail understands Malofeev will be charged with violent conduct after allegedly striking fourth official John McKendrick during Monday's 1-1 draw at Falkirk.

The 64-year-old former Soviet Union coach was sent to the stand by referee Mike McCurry and must serve an automatic two-match touchline ban.

But that suspension would almost certainly be extended were the interim coach found guilty of punching McKendrick moments after Russell Latapy's late equaliser.

It is understood allegations of a punch by Malofeev have been included in the match reports of McCurry and SPL delegate Craig Brown.

It is believed McKendrick was struck in the ribs when Malofeev mistook him for a member of the Falkirk coaching staff amid touchline confusion.

The interim coach was incensed when McKendrick prevented Hearts striker Andrius Velicka from returning to the pitch after receiving treatment to a head wound.

But any SFA sanctions would matter little to Malofeev, given his intention to return to Lithuania to study for his UEFA pro-licence later this month.

Hearts yesterday confirmed 55-year-old FBK Kaunas boss Eugenijus Riabovas will take temporary charge of the first team when Malofeev departs.

With head coach Valdas Ivanauskas still on sick leave, it is certain Riabovas will be in control by the time Malofeev begins his automatic ban for the games against St Mirren and Motherwell.

Meanwhile, long-serving Hearts assistant coach John McGlynn is on a shortlist to succeed Craig Levein as Raith Rovers boss but faces competition from the likes of Gordon Chisholm and Gary Bollan.

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