Hearts boss Paulo Sergio says a “political” issue is behind goalkeeper Marian Kello’s absence from first-team action.

The Slovakian stopper didn’t feature Sunday’s Scottish Cup draw with St Johnstone, just days after reportedly rejecting a deadline day transfer to Austria Vienna.

And speaking after the game, Sergio says he expects to be without the 29-year-old for Wednesday’s match with Celtic unless the issue is resolved.

He said: "There is an issue running between him (Kello) and our board, a political thing. It's not up to me to explain that.

"I was told that because Marian is not committed with the future with Hearts, we should play the others. It's a tough situation.

"It's not a good thing for us."

Kello, who joined the Tynecastle side in 2008 from Kaunas, has made 23 appearances for the club this season.

Jamie MacDonald started in goal for the home side who took the lead through David Templeton.

However Cillian Sheridan earned Saints a replay with the equaliser after 77 minutes.

IN DETAIL

• Match report: Hearts 1-1 St Johnstone