26th November 2005

Riordan apology for Skacel jibe

Hibernian forward Derek Riordan is to make a personal apology to Hearts striker Rudi Skacel after branding him a "refugee".

The 22-year-old was caught on camera joining fans in taunts about the Czech as he celebrated his team's 2-0 victory over their Edinburgh rivals last month.

A Hibs spokesman said: "He apologises for any offence he may inadvertently have caused.

"He admits joining in with that particular song was a misjudgement."

Asked if Riordan would be disciplined, the spokesman said: "The matter has been dealt with internally and we move on."

He said that the Scotland international will now be writing to Skacel to apologise for his behaviour.

A video clip of him singing to the tune of The Beatles' "Yellow Submarine" recorded on a mobile phone had been circulated among fans.

Skacel, who moved to Tynecastle on loan during the summer and is expected to make his deal permanent next year, is in the running for the Scottish player of the year award after netting 11 goals already this season.

Riordan appeared in court on a breach of the peace charge in June after being arrested outside an Edinburgh restaurant.

He was cleared after his lawyer argued swearing at police was not a crime.

Riordan has already turned down a move to Cardiff City this year, having attracted scouts from England and abroad.

Source: The BBC