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Hearts No. 1 Jamie Macdonald used to loathe the prospect of pre-season training - but admits he'll love getting back into the swing of things tomorrow.

The first-team squad report back in the morning after their summer holidays, with the players having had to read about the club plunging into administration during their break.

Although the first few days back are destined to be punishing affairs, the keeper reckons it will come as a pleasant relief to all the financial dramas surrounding the football club at present.

"I have to admit it's not something I usually look forward to but I can't wait to get back into training tomorrow," he said.

"The last few days have been extremely difficult for me personally as I have seen a lot of good people at the club lose their jobs. Getting back in amongst the boys and the banter will be good."

Jamie, one of the senior players to agree a hefty pay cut to assist the club, was quick to praise the fans for their response to the crisis.

"They have been fantastic buying so many season tickets," he added. "Hopefully more of them keep doing that. I had to think carefully about taking the cut as I have a family and a mortgage to pay but at the end of the day this club means everything to me and it's a wee thank-you to the fans for what they have done."

Hearts World