ST JOHNSTONE I’M BUZZING TO PLAY IN EUROPE
Hurst ready to fulfil his Saints dream
When Greg Hurst grew up kicking a ball around the local park there was a dream to one day play in the Europa League.
And this summer that dream could become a reality as the Perth forward sets his sights on pushing for a first team place.
T h e 20-year-old made his first appearance of the season for Saints in last week’s Scottish Premiership curtaincloser against Rangers.
Now Hurst is hoping he will be involved in the European adventure at the end of next month.
“It’s a short break for Europe so I’ll be away for a few days somewhere, and then back in for the start of preseason,” Hurst told the PA.
“This will be my first season involved in Europe. The thought of being in a European squad is exciting for all of the boys, especially the younger ones.
“I can’t wait to get going for it. Being a footballer you want to play on the highest stage. For St Johnstone, European football is a big thing.
“As a kid it’s what you want to do. You want to play and be involved with teams who are competing in Europe. So I’m buzzing with that.
“A shorter trip would probably be nicer, especially if you haven’t had a lot of time off at the end of the season.
“You can’t really put into words what the gaffer has done with the team, it’s incredible.
“The boys find something every game and every season to go and finish in the top four or six to get Europe.”
Hurst, who was on loan at Berwick Rangers earlier this season, provided the assist for the Perth goal last Sunday.
Taking to the field for the first team is always a special occasion and he said: “We were disappointed with the result after the season we’ve had.
“But it’s a great feeling coming on and especially when you have experienced players helping you through the game.
“It was good to get on against Rangers when there is such a big crowd and an atmosphere like that.
“It’s totally different from playing a game with the Under 20s, with things like the intensity.
“I think I probably should have done a little better with a couple of the balls I received. But I’m delighted to set up the goal and have a good run down the right. Greg Hurst
“I should have put in a better cross but these things will come with more experience.”
His loan spell at League Two side Berwick was a frustrating one, Hurst admits, but he still feels a better player for the experience.
“The loan was a tough time for me, in terms of the way that league plays football,”he said.
“But physically I’ve improved and I’ve become quicker and stronger.
“I picked up an injury when I was there but coming back I felt stronger, fitter and faster.
“First and foremost I now need to earn the gaffer’s trust so that he can put me on in a game where the stakes are high.
“It’s going to be hard and a tough season for me but I’m ready to play.
“It’s a great group of lads here and I get on with every single one of them.
“They make me feel comfortable when I train and play for the first team. I can’t thank them enough.”