Liam Boyce is feeling positive over his chances of facing Rangers this weekend.
The Hearts striker came off during the weekend defeat to the Light Blues at Tynecastle in the final game of the Premiership season.
His departure from the pitch was a cause for concern with the big Scottish Cup showdown at Hampden just days away.
But the Northern Irishman admits he is already feeling better - just a couple of days on.
He told the Hearts website : “It’s turned out to be a bit better than what I thought at the time. I tried to sprint, and I could suddenly feel a wee pain – almost like a shock.
“You automatically assume the worst but it’s feeling a lot better.
"I would probably try and play either way but it always comes down to the team but I’d fancy my chances for the weekend.
“Saturday’s result won’t have any bearing on anything. Even when I was watching it in the stand, it had the feel of a testimonial match.
"There was no intensity and no big tackles flying in."
Boyce can't wait to hear the Hampden roar once again as the Gorgie club bid to win a ninth Scottish Cup trophy.
Hearts defeated city rivals Hibs in the semi-final stage at the national stadium and return this weekend to take on Rangers, who face a huge Europa League final showdown with Frankfurt on Wednesday night.
He added: “I said at the time that it didn’t feel like a Scottish Cup final because it was an empty stadium.
"We had all the same build up but none of the atmosphere because nobody was there. When we lost, it was gutting.
“We’re all so excited this time round. We beat Hibs in the semi and the feeling and noise was incredible.
"That’s what you play for, for the cheers and for stuff like the big Tifo before the game."
