Strike star Stephen Elliott today vowed to hit the goal trail for Hearts as he bids to kick-start his career in Gorgie.

The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international put pen to paper at Tynecastle this week after being released by Preston North End and is looking forward to the challenge of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

Speaking for the first time since clinching his move to the Edinburgh club, the front man told Hearts News: "To be honest the last couple of years haven't been great and I haven't played as much as I would have liked.

"I found out about Hearts' interest a couple of weeks ago. I came up to have a look around and was impressed by the facilities and the manager. Kevin Kyle, whose a good friend of mine, had told me all about Jim Jefferies, and as soon as I met him I had a good impression of him.

"Hearts is a big club in Scotland and I'm really looking forward to getting my career going again here.

"I am feeling fit and can't wait to get out there and score goals again. The more training and more games I play, the better understanding I'll have with everyone."

It's been a momentous few days off the park for Stephen as well, with the Irishman celebrating the birth of his fourth child yesterday.

"It really has been a brilliant week for me after the birth of my daughter yesterday," he added. "It's all been pretty hectic but I'm over the moon. I'll be back for training tomorrow and we'll wait and see what the manager decides for the game this weekend."

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