Craig Levein has hit out at the award of Celtic's penalty in the League Cup semi final, describing the decision as 'very soft'.

With the game locked at 0-0 early in the second half, Ryan Christie went down in the area under pressure from Hearts midfielder Oliver Bozanic.

Willie Collum, just five yards away, was quick to point to the spot, yet there didn't seem to be a great deal of contact between the players, with pundits and fans alike continuing to debate whether a penalty should have been awarded.

Scott Sinclair converted the penalty

But the Hearts boss was adamant the Hoops were fortunate to be given the spot kick, which opened the floodgates for Celtic to cruise to a 3-0 victory.

Levein told BT Sport: "I think it's very soft. I think he [Christie]'s waiting on it.

"It's probably made the difference in the match.

"Certainly our boys looked a wee bit disappointed after that and then of course the next goal's silly as well.

Craig Levein looks on as his team suffer a 3-0 defeat

"First and foremost we've got to look at our own performance, but it's a disappointing day, we can't hide from that".

Aside from the Cup exit, Levein also has to contend with the injury to Jambos talisman Steven Naismith, who was subbed within 10 minutes after struggling with a knock.

The Hearts boss confirmed his forward has an issue with his knee, as fans wait anxiously for an update on how long the Scotland international will be sidelined for.

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