Police are appealing for witnesses after a Kilmarnock player complained he was racially abused from the stands at a match against Hearts.

Josh Magennis made the allegation following his side's 1-0 defeat at Tynecastle on Saturday afternoon.

Officers are now seeking a man in his mid 40s over the incident, who was believed to have been seated in Lower Section E of the Wheatfield Stand.

Police Scotland said the suspect is described as white, with dark hair which is receding on top. He had a stocky build.

The man was wearing dark glasses and a dark jacket which possibly had red lining. Police said he directed racial abuse at the Kilmarnock player during the game.

PC Gavin Stuart of Wester Hailes said: "Racial abuse is absolutely unacceptable, in any circumstances.

"The behaviour of the majority of fans at Tynecastle on Saturday was excellent and I want to thank both clubs for their cooperation.

"We’re conducting various enquiries 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 said in a statement on Saturday evening: "The club can confirm that following this afternoon's game, a complaint was made to Police Scotland by a Kilmarnock player.

"The Kilmarnock player alleges that an abusive comment was made relating to his nationality by an individual seated within the home end at Tynecastle.

"The alleged abusive remark related to the player being Irish. The player is from Northern Ireland. To clarify, this allegation does not involve the player's colour, religion or sexuality.

"Senior figures from both clubs were present when the player made the complaint and discussed the matter fully thereafter.

"Heart of Midlothian FC has a number of players of different nationality playing in the current squad and is very proud of the international make-up of our team.

"We will fully support any police investigation into reports of abuse such as the one which has been reported today."

Kilmarnock declined to comment as the matter is under police investigation.

Anyone with information has been asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.