Levein praised United's comeback against Celtic

Dundee United manager Craig Levein was frustrated by a denied penalty claim in the 1-1 draw with Celtic but was happy his side came back to claim a point.

Celtic defender Gary Caldwell appeared to trip Roy O'Donovan in the box as United trailed 1-0.

Paul Hartley had earlier given Celtic the lead with Francisco Sandaza equalising for the home side.

"If it is a stonewall penalty, which everybody says it is, then I feel really harshly treated," said Levein.

Levein was recently fined �5000 for publicly criticising a referee after his side lost 3-1 to Rangers at Ibrox.

But, speaking to BBC Scotland, the United boss insisted he had no axe to grind against Charlie Richmond, who had to be replaced injured by Iain Brines shortly after his controversial decision at Tannadice.

"I really do hope for the sake of Scottish football that it's not because I spoke out," added Levein.

"I can understand that people make mistakes and, in all honesty, I like Charlie. I think he's a decent referee and I've just got to put it down that he made a mistake.

"We've got a meeting with the referees on Wednesday, so I've got a few points that I'd like to put across and I'd love for everybody to get on and work together for the good of Scottish football."

Levein praised his side for a spirited performance against the reigning Scottish Premier League champions.

"Both teams cancelled each other out in the first half, but the second half was a great game," he said.

"I'm really pleased with the players for fighting back.

"I thought defensively we were much better and special mention for goalkeeper Lukasz Zalusha, he made a wonderful save at 1-0 and those are the kinds of things that make a difference.

"When I can bring Sandaza and Craig Conway on as substitutes, it's a real boost to me to look to the bench and see the quality that I've got sitting there."