The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Mackay-steven aims to be in contention soon at Tynecastle
Gary Mackay-steven has told Hearts fans that they will not have to wait long to see him making his debut for the club.
The former Celtic and Aberdeen winger played his last game on December 16 in New York City’s 4- 0 CONCACAF Champions League loss to Mexican outfit Tigres UANL.
Mackay- Steven, who has signed a two and a half year deal with He a r t s , also had to quarantine for 14 days when he arrived back in Scotland from America at the end of last month.
But the 30-year-old is confident it will not take him long to force his way into contention for Robbie Neilson’s side.
Saturday’s Championship trip to Alloa could come too soon but the playmaker plans to do all he can to make sure he is available soon.
Mackay- Steven said: “We finished in December, the middle of December was our last game at New York City and I’ve done bits and bobs since.
“I’ve had the isolation period when you’re in your apartment.
“I’m maybe not quite match fit but it won’t take long to get up to speed. I feel I’m good physically and with the match sharpness and fitness you work on the training ground. I’m sure I’ll get worked hard over the next wee while.”
Mackay-steven notched 37 goals and 43 assists in 202 top- flight appearances across his spells at Dundee United, Celtic and Aberdeen.
The Scotland cap is desperate to make sure he adds to those tallies during his time in Gorgie as He a r t s chase an immediate return to the Premiership.
He added: “The manager sees me predominantly as a wide player. I can play in the attacking third anywhere really but yeah, as a winger.
“I like to get on the ball and take people on and showcase what I can do, dribble, create chances and score a few goals along the way.
“There’s a great squad here at the moment and I just want to complement them and bring my attributes to the team and help us achieve our goals, hit the ground running, get playing and start enjoying myself.”