Kevin Kyle aims to be back for first derby

Hearts striker Kevin Kyle has targeted the first Edinburgh derby of the season for his return from injury.

The former Kilmarnock striker netted ten times last season before his campaign was ended in January by a hip problem.

Kyle's rehabilitation is continuing but he admits he is dreaming of being fully fit for the visit of city rivals Hibernian on 28 August. He told Hearts TV: "I've pencilled in a wee game against Hibernian at the end of August, so that would be ideal - perfect really, if I was back for that one.

"If I could come on and do what I do best, score a last-minute winner, then I'm sure everybody would be happy with that and hopefully forget about the last six months."

In the Europa League third qualifying round next week, Hearts face either Troms or Paksi. The sides drew 1-1 last week and play the return leg in Norway tonight, with Hearts manager Jim Jefferies set to be in attendance. Whilst that tie will come too soon for Kyle, the big striker is hopeful of being available for a play-off round should Hearts progress. Kyle said: "I hope that whoever it is we play, be it Troms or Paksi, we get through that tie and by the next round I should be back playing around about then."