Cammy Devlin insists the script is being written for a dream first season at Hearts.
The Australian midfielder believes a Scottish Cup Final appearance and the guarantee of a Europa League play-off spot is beyond any of his expectations after arriving at Tynecastle last summer.
Since establishing himself as a firm favourite with the Jambos support, the 23-year-old admits it’s a match made in heaven as he prepares to face Dundee United this afternoon.
He said: “To make it to a cup final and to be guaranteed Europe beyond Christmas is a dream come true.
“If we win the cup final I will definitely say that. Coming from the other side of the world was a step into the unknown.
“I knew it was going to be a big challenge but I have just tried to take it in my stride and have as much fun as possible.
“That’s when I play at my best. But it has been unbelievable.
“I have the fans to thank, all the staff and the boys that I spend every day with. They have been unreal with me.
“It can be quite daunting for a 23-year-old to come to the other side of the world but they have made it so easy.
“I am super grateful to every single person who has played a part. I just want to keep going and win the cup final and these final five games.”
Devlin’s never-say-die approach to the game and tough tackling has endeared him to the punters in Gorgie.
But he’s bemused as to why he has been such a big hit.
He said: “I’m not really sure why that is. I just try to be myself on the pitch as much as I can and I guess I’m a passionate player.
“I’m someone who will work hard for 90 or 120 minutes. As long as I have a job to do, I will work as hard as I can for that time – and fans respect that. They want to see someone who, even when things aren’t going their way, will still give 100 per cent and that is something that I pride myself on.
“I guess they feel the energy from that and when they give it back, not only to me but the whole team, we are fuelled by that and it gives us more energy to keep working hard.
“I have a lot to thank them for as they have supported me this season. They give me the energy to run around like a headless chicken.”
Devlin is now determined to cement his place in the cup final side that will face Rangers in May.
He’s adamant there will be no taking their foot off the gas at Tannadice today.
He said: “United will want to get one over on us as they haven’t beaten us all season but we are full of confidence and we are going there to claim the three points.
“We have competition for places all over the park which is a good thing.
“That’s why we are where we are this season – because of the quality we have. You can’t achieve what we have, getting European football and a cup final, without it.
“We don’t have the biggest squad but everyone can step into the team and do a job.
“It’s important for the whole team to continue the momentum.
“Most players are carrying a niggle but that’s normal for every team in the league around this time.
“Every player at some time has something wrong with them, so it’s not just me. But it’s important if you are fit enough to play then you do your best to keep going.”
