Steven MacLean reveals why he left Hearts and praises Daniel Stendel

Steven MacLean became the fifth player to leave Hearts in the January transfer window.

He followed Glenn Whelan, Craig Wighton, Jake Mulraney and Callumn Morrison out the door, joining Raith Rovers on loan until the end of the season.

The 37-year-old hasn't featured in the last five matches under new boss Daniel Stendel, having started the first three games of the German's tenure.

Steven MacLean left Hearts for Raith Rovers on loan. Picture: SNS | other

With the arrival of Liam Boyce and return to fitness of Steven Naismith and Conor Washington, it has pushed the former Rangers and Aberdeen forward down the pecking order.

While enjoying his time under Stendel, MacLean has opted to move to the League One leaders to play regular football.

He said: "I just want to go and play games. I spoke to the manager (Stendel) and he told me that my first-team options would be limited.

“I like the manager and his training was brand new but I am at the age where I want to be playing."

He added: “I had a few options but I have been really impressed with John McGlynn. John is a good guy and everybody tells me that he is a good manager to work for.

“So I am just looking forward to getting started and to see what happens between now and the end of the season.”

MacLean played 52 times for Hearts, scoring nine times.