SIGNING UP FOR ROBBIE’S PLAN IS NO-BRAINER
New Hearts signing Gary Mackay- Steven says he is raring to go after being wowed by the Jambos’ desire to land him.
The Scotland star signed a two-and-a-half-year deal on Friday after leaving MLS side New York City FC.
The winger turned down a return to former club Aberdeen to join the Championship promotion battle and revealed manager Robbie Neilson was a key factor in his decision.
Mackay-Steven said: “I’m delighted. It’s a great feeling seeing the stadium and knowing I’m a Hearts player.
“I can’t wait to get going. I couldn’t wait to be here.
“It was a no-brainer really once I heard from the manager, seeing his vision for the club and knowing how big a club it is.
“There were some offers but knowing the manager – I played with him briefly – and watching from afar he’s done a great job everywhere he’s been.
“I spoke to him and he just showed his plan for Hearts.
“I knew from playing here what the supporters are like, what the stadium’s like and it’s an amazing place.
“You want to be part of that and to have an chance now just seems right.
“Neilson is knowledgeable as a guy, knows the game inside out and I always saw him as a leader and a manager. It’s no surprise he’s gone on and done so well.”
Mackay-Steven was on a guaranteed $ 274,833 per season in MLS but New York City opted not to take up their option on his contract at the end of the season.
Despite having had just two seasons Stateside, the 30- year- old bel ieves he learned plenty.
Mackay- Steven said: “It was brilliant.
“I have no regrets. It was obviously a great place to be but the football is great as well.
“It’s totally different to what I was used to.
“There’s a lot of stuff you don’t quite appreciate when you go – like the travel over there.
“You don’t realise how big a country America is until you are travelling there.
“You’re flying here, there and everywhere.
“But it was amazing. “Obviously last year was a little bit different, as it was everywhere in the world, with the pandemic and stuff so we didn’t play as many games.
“It was a totally different season but it was brilliant and I’m leaving one great city for another.
“It was a great experience. I wanted to sample other stuff but it’s nice to be at home. I just want to get kick-started because I’ve got so much more to offer.”