POLICE yesterday appealed for witnesses amid Kilmarnock striker Josh Magennis’s complaint that he was racially abused by a Hearts fan during Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at Tynecastle.

Magennis, picture above, left, at full-time with the Ayrshire club’s new signing Julien Faubert, complained to officers over an alleged comment that related to him being Irish. The 25-year-old is a 15-times-capped Northern Ireland international. Police Scotland issued a description of the man who is alleged to have directed racially aggravated abuse at Magennis.

The incident took place at 4.40pm, with the player understood to have made the allegation after the match.

The supporter responsible is believed to have been seated in lower section E of the Wheatfield Stand. He is described as being white, of stocky build and in his mid-40s, with dark hair receding on top. He was wearing dark glasses and a dark jacket that possibly had red lining.

PC Gavin Stupart said: “Racial abuse is absolutely unacceptable in any circumstances. The behaviour of the majority of fans at Tynecastle was excellent and I want to thank both clubs for their co-operation.

“We’re conducting various inquiries in an effort to trace the perpetrator and I’d ask any witnesses to this abuse, or anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, to come forward.”

Hearts confirmed a complaint had been made to police. The club said in a statement: “Senior figures from both clubs were present when the player made the complaint and discussed the matter fully thereafter.

“The allegation does not involve the player’s colour, religion or sexuality. Heart of Midlothian FC have a number of players of different nationalities in the current squad and are very proud of the international make-up of our team. We will fully support any police investigation into reports of abuse.”