ELGIN CITY have been charged with breaching SPFL Rules and Regulations.

League chiefs have confirmed that the League Two club fielded an ineligible player during Saturday's Premier Sports Cup tie against Ayr United.

Experienced defender Darryl McHardy was due to serve a one-match Scottish FA suspension in the competition.

However, he entered the field as a sub just after the half-hour mark at Somerset Park.

The match ended 0-0 with Ayr picking up the bonus point on penalties.

A disciplinary heading for the matter has been set for Thursday, July 14.

A statement from the SPFL reads: "Elgin City have confirmed to the SPFL that they included Darryl McHardy in Saturday’s Premier Sports Cup Group F game against Ayr United at Somerset Park when the player was subject to a one-match Scottish FA suspension in the competition.

"Darryl McHardy entered the field as a 33rd-minute substitute in a match that ended in Ayr United winning 4-3 on penalties after a 0-0 draw.

"As a result, Elgin City have been charged with breaching SPFL Rules and Regulations and the SPFL has arranged a disciplinary hearing for Thursday July 14."