Steven Naismith has voiced his displeasure over the SPFL's decision not to make Hearts' Viaplay Cup semi-final against Rangers a 50-50 split in regards to tickets.

The Tynecastle side will face Rangers at Hampden in the last four of the League Cup early next month.

Last week it was announced that Rangers would be afforded more tickets for the game than Hearts. 

Hearts said they were 'very disappointed' over the matter, with their allocation sitting at just 18,000 for the Hampden encounter.

They could get an extra 2,000  if they sell out those tickets, but Naismith remains fuming about the decision.

The former Hearts and Rangers striker believes it’s unfair from the league's governing body ahead of the game on Sunday, October 5.

He said: “I just find it hard to understand why it (even split) wouldn’t be your starting point. Clubs grow, clubs get more backing, and clubs get engaged with their fanbase to increase it.

"Hearts have been a club that has shown that. We could easily cover 50/50 in a big semi-final game like that. It is disappointing but we accept it and we’ll deal with it.”

A club statement on the matter read: “The club would like to assure fans that we requested and pushed for an even 50-50 split of tickets, but due to previous sales history and the inability to segregate Hampden’s North Stand into subsections, this request was denied.

“Naturally, we are very disappointed at this outcome but we are confident that Hearts supporters will take up our full allocation and turn Hampden into a sea of maroon.”

READ MORE: Scotland assistant John Carver opens up on Elliot Anderson impasse

Meanwhile, John Carver has pledged not to intervene in Scotland’s pursuit of Elliot Anderson despite his long-standing relationship with the Newcastle United midfielder and called for the gifted youngster to be given time to decide on his international future.

Former St James’s Park coach and caretaker manager Carver has known Anderson, who qualifies to play for this country through a paternal grandmother, since he was a young boy and has monitored his rise through the ranks closely.