KELTY HEARTS have strengthened their backline by completing the signing of a former Pars loanee until the end of the season.

Brad McKay, who helped Dunfermline win the League One title in 2016, has moved to New Central Park on a temporary arrangement from Falkirk.

The former Heart of Midlothian defender is set to be included in the squad for tomorrow's Scottish Cup, fourth round tie at Ayr United, subject to approval from the SFA.

McKay is Kelty's second acquisition in as many days, following the arrival of full-back, Brody Paterson, on a similar deal from Hartlepool United.

READ MORE: Kelty secure former Pars and Celtic defender on loan deal ahead of cup clash

"Kelty Hearts would like to welcome defender Brad McKay as the latest new signing at New Central Park," the club said.

"An experienced defender with over 200 appearances to his name, Brad joins on loan from Falkirk until the end of the season. As well as The Bairns, Brad has played for Hearts, Stenhousemuir, St Johnstone, Dunfermline and Inverness CT.

"Brad will be available for inclusion for tomorrow's cup tie subject to SFA approval. We would like to thank Falkirk FC for their assistance in getting this deal over the line."

Edinburgh-born McKay began his career with Hearts - his boyhood club - before moving to St Johnstone in the summer of 2015.

Midway through his first season in Perth, he joined Dunfermline on loan, and scored on his debut in a 2-2 draw with Ross County in the Scottish Cup.

In total, he played 18 games for the Pars, scoring three times, as he helped them win the League One title in 2016.

That summer, he moved to Inverness Caledonian Thistle, with whom he spent five years before signing for Falkirk in the summer of 2021.

Dunfermline Press: McKay, pictured here challenging ex-Pars team-mate Joe Cardle in a game with Kelty last season, could be available for tomorrow's Scottish Cup tie.McKay, pictured here challenging ex-Pars team-mate Joe Cardle in a game with Kelty last season, could be available for tomorrow's Scottish Cup tie. (Image: David Wardle.)

Despite playing 38 times for the Bairns last term, he has featured just five times for them this season, with his last appearance coming in his only League One game for the leaders, at Cove Rangers in August.

Falkirk added: "We can confirm that Brad McKay has joined Kelty Hearts on loan until the end of the season.

"Everyone at the club would like to wish Brad all the best for his time with Kelty."