Makel wants to be taken off against Hearts is he starts to see red again

DUNFERMLINE'S Lee Makel is determined he won't complete a red-card hat-trick as the Pars host Hearts tomorrow, writes DEREK McCALLUM

Ex-Jambo Makel has received red cards in his last two starts and revealed he has asked manager Jim Leishman to substitute him if he picks up a booking.

The talented playmaker was sent off as the Fifers crashed out of the Scottish Cup to Airdrie last Saturday, seven days after he saw red in the 3-3 league draw with Rangers.

Makel admits he holds himself responsible for the shock cup exit that saw the Pars lose two late goals to go down 4-3 to the Diamonds.

He said: "I am really disappointed that I let the boys down and I just had to hold my hands up. To leave them a player short for so long was significant and I've no doubt cost us the game, but I have got to get on with it and work my socks off to put it right.

"I found out on Sunday I would be eligible to play against Hearts and that my suspension for the red card would be in next season's Scottish Cup competition.

"My initial reaction was to be delighted then to tell the gaffer that if I get booked I want to be taken off as I don't want to take any chances and make it a hat-trick of sendings-off."

After Hearts, Dunfermline face Hibs at Easter Road and Makel acknowledges the Capital duo will be tough nuts to crack. He added: "The Edinburgh teams are flying just now. We are looking forward to tomorrow's game, though. Hearts are a strong, physical side and we must compete with them."

Taken from the Scotsman