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.

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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.”

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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.”