Neilson nearing first-team return

Hearts staged a testimonial match for Neilson earlier this year

Hearts defender Robbie Neilson is hopeful of making a return to first-team action within the next few weeks.

The full-back has been out for six months following a stomach complaint and an Achilles problem.

"Hopefully, I'll get the all-clear in 10 days' time and I can get back into full training," he told Hearts TV.

"I'd like to be back well before Christmas. I haven't played for a while so I need to get a few reserve games before pushing for a first-team game."

Neilson, who had surgery on his ankle, last played a competitive match in April before Csaba Laszlo was appointed Tynecastle boss in the summer.

"Obviously, when a new manager comes in, it makes it more difficult because he gets his team together and you don't feel as if you're part of the team," the 28-year-old said.

It's going to be difficult for me to go and watch the game against Hibernian. It's one of those games everyone wants to be involved in Hearts' Robbie Neilson

"But that's part and parcel of football and you have to make sure you work hard and get yourself back 100% fit and hopefully get in his plans at some point."

Hearts' longest serving player won his only Scotland cap in the 2006 defeat to Ukraine in Kiev and received a late red card in the 2-0 loss.

"Everyone wants to be involved in the Scotland team," said Neilson.

"I'm never going to be somebody who's going to retire from squads, like some players do.

"I like to think, if I can get playing and playing well, I've got a chance of getting back in the team.

"But, first and foremost, it's getting back in the Hearts team for me. It's not a case of looking beyond that.

"If that comes eventually then so be it."

MY SPORT: DEBATE Are Hearts fans excited at the prospect of Neilson's return?

Hearts' next match is the first Edinburgh derby of the season against Hibernian and Neilson admits it will be frustrating watching from the sidelines.

"It's going to be difficult for me to go and watch it," he added.

"It's one of those games everyone wants to be involved in. It's probably the highlight of the season for us so far.

"On our day, we're definitely a match for most teams and we'd like to think we can go down there and take the three points. Form kind of goes out the window when you go into the derby games.

"If we do win, it can push us on and give us a bit of confidence for the rest of the campaign."