Hearts ace Steven Naismith reacts to injury which forced him off against Cyprus

Steven Naismith was replaced after picking up an injury in the win over Cyprus. Picture: SNS

It was the moment all Hearts fans feared when they saw Steven Naismith had been called up for Scotland duty.

Just under an hour had been played at the GSP Stadium in Nicosia when the striker tried to collect a pass from Ryan Jack but he did so in an awkward manner, the ball rebounding off him as he slipped on the surface and fell to the turf.

He didn't get back to his feet immediately and the first reaction from Hearts supporters watching would likely have been 'oh no, not again'. Or perhaps something stronger.

Naismith has said he is "fine" which will be a relief to Hearts fans. Picture: SNS

Naismith did get back to his feet but he was taken off within a couple of minutes, replaced by Oli McBurnie.

There is good news for the Tynecastle club with the player coming out afterwards to put to bed any concerns about the injury being cause for concern.

"I was fine," he told the Scottish FA. "I think it was an awkward movement but I feel fine and just delighted for us all to get a win."

Naismith, who called the 2-1 win over Cyprus a "professional performance", earned his 50th cap for the country which means he becomes the 32nd player to reach that milestone.

He said: "It can't be underestimated. I've won trophies in my career but representing my country, captaining and getting in the Hall of Fame, it's a special night for me personally. So I was glad the boys could hang on to get a win.

"I think it will be something I will look back on in years to come and be very proud of."