Hibernian manager David Gray has condemned allegations of racist abuse against defender Jordan Obita, who was arrested after a Hearts fan was sent off from Tynecastle during yesterday’s Edinburgh derby.
The incident is understood to have happened during a lengthy VAR check after Hibs were awarded the lead with a 2-1 win.
Home supporters who were behind the Hibs technical area where substitute Kobita was sitting were taken away by police.
Obita, 31, came on for the visitors in the second half and helped veteran Dwight Gayle score the winning goal in the 78th minute to secure Gorgie’s first derby win in five years.
Asked about the alleged incident, Mr Gray said: “It has no place at all. It has already been dealt with.”
“The most important thing is that Jordan was on the pitch and when he came on he was great. So it’s important to try to influence people as little as possible. As far as I’m concerned, that’s acceptable. No.”
Hibernian’s Jordan Obita speaks to police after abuse directed at him
Hibs manager David Gray condemned abuse and was pleased with players’ response
Critchley’s team lacked the “calmness, conviction and character to play football in chaos”
Mr Hertz acknowledged that the matter was within the jurisdiction of the police and promised to continue to crack down on such incidents.
Hearts said in a statement: “The club condemns racism and any form of abuse.” “We will not comment further on matters involving the police.”
Hibbs later issued a statement thanking Hertz for its “swift” response.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Two men have been arrested in connection with the disorder.” A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of racial abuse and an investigation continues. Another man was arrested in connection with the property invasion.
Meanwhile, Hearts manager Neil Critchley lamented a familiar tale of tragedy for his team at both ends of the pitch, as relegation fears deepen after a heartbreaking derby defeat.
Jeers rang out across Tynecastle at the end of the Gorgie side’s first home defeat to Hibs since 2019. Critchley has now lost eight of his last 13 games in all competitions.
After Kai Rowles and Rocky Bushiri exchanged own goals in the first half, Gayle gave Hibs a deserved winner late on.
“It’s a common story for us to miss opportunities and give opportunities,” Critchley said.
Hearts defender Craig Halkett appears disappointed after his team lost the Edinburgh derby
“I didn’t like watching that game for too long. We didn’t pass the ball enough. We didn’t hold onto the ball enough.
“The first goal surprised us. You can plan until you get punched in the nose. We got punched in the nose. It affected us too.
“When we started playing calmly near the end of the first half and in the second half, we were able to control the game.
“To play football in chaos you have to show more composure, belief and character. We didn’t do that. When we did that, the game was there for us. .
“The goal came from us not dealing with crosses. We can’t allow Gayle freedom in the box. We did that and that’s what he’s built his career on.
“It was a really lousy goal. Then we ended up chasing the game. We haven’t had enough spells for a long time, but in a game like this it’s not enough.”
Gray was excited about his team winning four of their last five games to continue their recent resurgence.
Hibs stars, led by defender Rocky Bushiri, celebrate in front of traveling supporters
He deliberately used the club’s long wait for a win at Tynecastle as motivation for his players.
“That was the message to the players: Let’s change history and make our own history here,” he said.
“The biggest thing was the character of the players. When Hearts got back to 1-1 there could have been a really negative reaction, especially after playing so well in the first half.
“Aside from the last few results and performances, we have not delivered up to this point in the season. We have been exposed to a lot of criticism, but given the time we are sure to turn this situation around. I am secretly confident that I can do it.
“I truly believe in the group and the togetherness has always been there, and days like today only strengthen that.
“It was great for the players to enjoy that moment, especially with the fans. We need to keep improving and we can’t be complacent, but we’re in a really positive period. ”
