ELLIOT VOWS TO KEEP STARTING SPOT

Hearts striker Calum Elliot is determined to retain his place in the starting line-up despite pressure from a host of other forwards at Tynecastle.

The 18-year-old has scored twice in as many games to help the Jambos claim wins over Hibernian and Aberdeen.

But, with Michal Pospisil, Edgaras Jankauskas, Roman Bednar and new signings Ludek Straceny and Juho Makela, all in the squad, the teenager is facing a fight to keep his spot.

However, while the Edinburgh-born teenager is simply happy to be playing, he recognises the need to keep scoring.

Elliot told Hearts News: "You've seen the number of strikers we have after the transfer window, so the only way to stay in the team is to score goals.

"Hopefully, I can continue to do that over the next few weeks.

"There have been a few injuries and suspensions, which has meant I've played a lot of games recently.

"Edgaras and Roman are on the way back, though, and there are the new strikers to get bedded in.

"And it's not just the experienced guys, there are other guys doing well for the reserves as well. It's going to be tough.

"All I can do is try to play well, score goals and hopefully keep my place."

Hearts head coach Graham Rix has kept faith with the youngster and Elliot is determined to repay his boss and the supporters.

He added: "It's a privilege to be playing for a club like Hearts and I want to do the supporters justice every time I pull on the shirt.

"That helps to take away any tiredness I might feel. I'll keep on playing as long as I can and for as long as the gaffer needs me to."

Taken from sportinglife.com