HIBERNIAN midfielder Vykintas Slivka insists he is ready to play a starring role in the capital club's European charge as he emerges from three months on the sidelines.
The Lithuania internationalist has been absent since the end of January after suffering a hamstring strain during a 2-1 victory against Motherwell at Easter Road.
However, he has made a timely return to action, stepping up his comeback by playing 75 minutes for Hibs' under-20s side on Tuesday afternoon as Grant Murray's kids claimed the Development League title with a 2-0 triumph against Aberdeen.
Read more: Neil Lennon can take over the reins at Celtic whenever Brendan Rodgers moves on
And Slivka is determined to make up for lost time as the Hibees embark on their post-split fixtures – starting with Saturday's visit of Celtic.
“For the last month I have had a hamstring injury which stopped me from playing, but now I feel good,” said Slivka.
“I am back playing and looking forward to doing everything I can to help the team finish the season as high as possible.
“It’s very important to finish the season strongly and secure our goal, which is a place in Europe.
“I hope to start some games in the final weeks of the season, that is my target, but of course the coach [Neil Lennon] knows what is needed for the team.”
Read more: Celtic winger James Forrest expects fired up Neil Lennon at Easter Road on Saturday
Prior to his fitness woes, Slivka was enjoying a positive maiden campaign in Scotland after joining Hibs from Italian giants Juventus last summer.
He has made 24 appearances for Lennon’s side, and his winning goal in Hibs’ breathless 3-2 win over Rangers at Ibrox last August was recently named "Moment of the Season" at the Hibernian Supporters’ Association awards evening.
“I think I have adapted well,” he added. "I like the atmosphere in Scottish football. I like the tempo of the game and I think it fits me.”
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