Nathaniel Atkinson has been surprised at how well his Hearts season has gone so far.
The Australian right-back joined in January and has already established himself under Robbie Neilson.
Scoring once and providing two assists in 19 the Socceroo already has love for the club.
And he's delighted that fans have their own song for him already.
He's also beaming at the prospect of European football next season and a cup final in May.
“The first few months here have been good for me,” he said. “We finished third, secured European football a place in the final and I’ve also made the national team so if you’d said I’d have all this 18 months ago, I don’t think I’d have believed you.
“I’ve probably played more than I expected when I first came. It was unfortunate for Smudge [Michael Smith] that he picked up that injury and has been out for so long. It will be good to have him back soon because competition makes you improve.”
The Hearts fans have taken to Atkinson so much that he already has his own song.
Hi x NEEKA’s ‘Following the Sun’ has been adapted in his honour and the 22-year admits he’s not been above a rendition himself after it got stuck in his head.
Close pal and compatriot Cammy Devlin is usually the first to pick him up on it as well.
“It’s pretty catchy, isn’t it?” said Atkinson. “I’ve found myself singing it a couple of times and Cammy Devlin likes to remind me of it at times. I’ve been surprised at how quickly the fans have taken to me.
“It’s a different culture to Australia. The fans here just eat and breathe football and will die for their club. They fill out the stadium every week and it’s nothing but a blessing to have that support.”
