Kyle Lafferty has broken his silence on a potential return to the Scottish Premiership this month.
The Northern Ireland striker is being linked with a move to Hearts in the January transfer window.
Reports have suggested the 32-year-old could continue his career abroad, following his recent spell with Norwegian side Sarpsborg.
But the Kesh man says he is determined to play in Scotland - with Hearts his preferred destination.
He said: “I don’t know where the story came from that I want to move abroad. My first option would be Hearts and I’ve said previously that I’d jump at the chance to go back.
“I loved the time I had there, the fans were great with me and I have lots of friends there who I still keep in touch with.
"I’ve spoken with a few Hearts boys and had a few texts about what’s going on but everything is hypothetical as there has been no firm contact.
“Playing in Norway allowed me to get back out onto the pitch and get game time, it was great to be playing regularly again. Now I need to move my career on and it’s the January window so I’ve ready for whatever challenge comes my way.
“Whether than can be at Hearts or elsewhere remains to be seen but hopefully I’ll have my future sorted in the coming weeks.
“I’ve been keeping myself fit and I’m ready to do a job so it’s an exciting time as I know I’ve got plenty to offer.”
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