Kyle Edin back to Scots Prem

I’m thrilled to be back in Scotland to play my football and most importantly to play for a massive team in Hearts. “I just wanted to come to somewhere where I can play football. I’ve got an important year ahead of me. “I’m hoping to make the World Cup with Northern Ireland so it’s an important year and I’ve been told I’ll be a main focal point of the team, which over the past two or three years I’ve thrived on and I’ve produced the goods. “Coming here, knowing how passionate the fans are about their club and their football, it’s important that I was coming to a place where I know I’d get along with the supporters. “Having spoken to manager Ian Cathro, the way he wants his team to play football and the way I play my football, I’m sure we’ll click.” The signing coup for the capital club was helped over the line by Hearts assistant gaffer Austin Macphee, who works with the Northern Irish backroom staff as well as international team-mate Aaron Hughes who joined the club last season. Lafferty and wife Vanessa have already been given a tour of the city by Hearts officials as the couple look to set up home in Edinburgh. Hearts owner Ann Budge said: “We are absolutely delighted Kyle is joining us. From our first meeting there was a clear willingness and desire to make this deal happen on both sides. “This is a real win-win for both parties and I am confident Kyle will become a real fans’ favourite.”

DELIGHTED Cathro (left) and Budge