WARRIOR

ELIE YOUAN Harry is such'a good guy and just loves his football. I can't imagine what he has been through he's a real..

- FRASER WILSON

ELIE YOUAN has backed 'warrior' Harry McKirdy to bounce back from career-saving heart surgery even stronger after the rousing Easter Road reception that greeted his cameo against Motherwell.

The Hibs striker made a surprise entrance off the bench in the 85th minute of Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Motherwell, six months after pre-season scans detected an issue with his heart.

Despite trailing 2-1 at the time, the Hibs support gave the 26-year-old a huge ovation as he replaced Dylan Vente for the closing stages and just minutes before Youan struck an injury-time leveller.

His appearance completed a heroic six-month journey for McKirdy who was left wondering if he would ever kick a ball again after the shock diagnosis in July.

Boss Nick Montgomery hailed the former Swindon hero for his determination to get back out on the pitch.

And Youan, who netted both goals against Well, reckons the resilience the Englishman has M shown is "mental" while his return can help Hibs improve their erratic form when they return from the winter break.

He said: "Harry's been through a lot lately. He's been working hard to come back. I'm happy for him. To be honest, I can't imagine what he has been through.

"I think he is a warrior. He loves football. When you get through something like this, you have to have the love of football to stay focused on what you do. He is back and I think it is mental! He is a very strong guy. A good guy as well, I'm really happy for him."