Hearts striker Stephen Elliott is nearing full fitness as this weekend's SPL trip to Aberdeen gets closer.

The Republic of Ireland international has been struggling with a hamstring injury in recent weeks but manager Jim Jefferies believes his performance in a bounce game earlier this week has him in contention for a first team start.

"Stephen looked sharp in the game against Hamilton which was very encouraging," Jefferies told Hearts News.

"He didn't play the full 90 minutes as I didn't want him picking up an injury with him tiring towards the end."

The 26-year old has only managed two appearances for his new club since crossing from Preston North End in August.