Kevin Kyle targets return to action following successful operation

HEARTS striker Kevin Kyle is quickly feeling the benefit after undergoing “last-chance” surgery to cure a recurring hip injury.

Kyle, who has not played for 13 months, is optimistic he can overcome long-standing fears for the future of his career following his operation in Coventry last week.

The 30-year-old told Hearts News: “I’m very optimistic and can feel a difference straight away.

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“I’m quite excited about the future but am not going to rush things.

“I have a 12-week rehab plan and I’ll see where I am and how I am feeling after that.

“But I’m not going to put any time frame on anything.

“I know this is my last chance so I want to make sure I get things right and get back training when I’m ready.”

The news has further lifted the mood at the club following a 2-1 extra-time win over St Johnstone which sent Hearts into the William Hill Scottish Cup quarter-finals, where they will host St Mirren.

Kyle said: “It would be brilliant if Hearts got to the final in May. I might have to cancel my stag do for that!

“But, seriously, it would be a real boost if we could get there and if I was even doing some training by then, the buzz around the place would be great.

“But that’s a long way off. I just want to focus on doing my rehab programme and then see how things are.”

Skipper Marius Zaliukas scrambled a late winner at McDiarmid Park despite playing through a knock during extra-time in an unfamiliar striking role.

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The defender said: “I don’t think I’ll be playing as a centre-forward regularly. I won a couple of lucky headers.

“It was a brilliant feeling to win the game. The last few years we’ve struggled in the cup so this feels a wee bit special.

“To have a home game is a good draw. We’re looking forward to hopefully getting to Hampden.”