Banks delighted to be back in action

Dundee United goalkeeper Steve Banks admits he loved every minute of his shock recall to the first team against former club Hearts. With the May 15 Scottish Cup final against Ross County in mind, Tannadice manager Peter Houston decided to rest regular number one Dusan Pernis in their penultimate SPL clash, which ended goalless.Having spent four years with Hearts during a period that saw him pick up a Scottish Cup winner's medal in 2006 when he was an unused substitute in the penalty kick win over Gretna, the Englishman has fond memories of Tynecastle.Banks received a good reception from both sets of supporters in only his fourth appearance of the season and admits it was an enjoyable experience.He said: "I was looking forward to coming back to Tynecastle anyway but to get a game makes it so much more special for me."The gaffer told me on Tuesday afternoon that I was playing so I was excited about it."The way the crowd reacted towards me as well was great. I would like to thank them for that."It's a special place for me coming back. I must admit I've been pretty lucky with the clubs I've been at that I've had a decent reception when I've gone back but this is quite close to my heart, the way they showed their appreciation was nice."It's nice to get a clean sheet as well, Dusan has a great record."I've enjoyed it but Dusan will be back in at the weekend for the Hibs game. It was a break for him as he's been playing every week. It was a chance to roll me out."Meanwhile, Hearts defender Ismael Bouzid hopes the Gorgie side are celebrating European qualification next season after their bid to seal a Europa League berth was effectively ended against United.With a three point gap and massive goal difference to make up on fifth place Hibs with one game left, Hearts are resigned to finishing sixth.Bouzid said: "We must accept this and to work more for next season to be positive as we showed we can do well but next season we need more consistency all year."Sometimes, we lost the confidence this season and in a lot of games we didn't score."We need to start strong and take confidence, if you don't lose confidence you don't score and you lose points."If you can get into Europe it's good for you, the team and the supporters."

Source: Team_Talk