Midfielder Laryea Kingston has denied reports that he is hoping to delay joining Ghana's Africa Cup of Nations preparations next year.

Fifa, football's world governing body, has rules that state clubs must release players at least 14 days ahead of an international tournament.

British media reported last week that the Ghanaian was keen to stay until just before the start of the tournament in his home country.

Kingston, who is the principal architect of Hearts’ recent revival, was reported to be keen on helping in the Scottish Premier League challenge.

But the midfielder says media reports of him seeking a delay in his arrival for the tournament, which starts on 20 January, were untrue.

“I want to assure Ghanaians and coach Claude Le Roy what I said has completely been taken out of context,” Kingston said.

“I want assure fans of the Black Stars that I will be the first person to turn up for the national team camp when it opens for the Nations Cup.

“There is no compromise when it comes to my country and I have the backing of the people of my country and the Fifa laws.

“I only sympathised with Hearts because my absence during the Nations Cup will be a blow to the team but that does not mean I was asking for the postponement.

“This sympathy has been taken out of context. Playing for my country has moulded me into the player Hearts fans admire so I won't turn my back on my country.

“This is even more crucial when we are hosting the tournament in our country and we have the brightest chance of winning."

Kingston was speaking hours after being named man-of-the-match as Falkirk were swept aside in style for Hearts to secure their sixth win in seven league games.

The Ghanaian, who missed some matches at the start of the season because of a suspension, set up three goals in the 4-2 home victory on Saturday.

His collection of deft tricks has been greatly appreciated as Hearts are now fifth in the table, seven points behind leaders Hibernian.

Now Uefa Cup qualification is back on the radar after a wretched start to the campaign.