Kevin Kyle today tipped Stephen Elliott to be a huge success at Hearts.

The towering striker knows the new Jambo well from their time together at Sunderland and believes he'll prove a real thorn in the side of opposition defences this season.

Stephen penned his deal earlier this week and although he hasn't played regular competitive football, Kevin reckons it won't take long for him to show the qualities which have won him nine caps for the Republic of Ireland.

"Stephen is more than a box player and his greatest asset is his sharpness," he said.

"He is a very nimble striker, can turn quickly and I'm sure he can definitely be a success here. He has scored some great goals in his career and he has a lot in his locker. I am delighted he is here."

Kevin, meanwhile, revealed he is "well ahead of schedule" in his fitness battle following a hernia operation and is desperate to be involved in tomorrow's Clydesdale Bank Premier League curtain raiser against St Johnstone.

"I feel 100 per cent but I'll just have to see what happens," he added. "It would be great to be involved but it's up to the manager."

On Hearts.TV today, an exclusive interview with Stephen Elliott, plus JJ's pre-match press conference IN FULL!