‘Winning mentality’ can boost Hibernian

New signing Jason Naismith is hopeful his winning mentality and Ladbrokes Premiership experience can help Hibernian succeed this season.

The 25-year-old defender joined Paul Heckingbottom’s side on a season-long loan from Peterborough on deadline day.

Naismith, who is no stranger to the Scottish top flight having played for both St Mirren and Ross County before moving to England, could make his debut when Hibs visit Kilmarnock today.

He said: “Hopefully I can bring a winning mentality. I like to win.

“There are obviously winners in there who I’ve played with in the past. Darren McGregor and guys like that.

“So hopefully we can win games. “I’ve got experience in this league – I’ve done it before.

“I did well the last time I was here so hopefully, I can carry that form on.”

Naismith is delighted to be at Easter Road and is hoping to make a success of his loan spell.

“Obviously it’s a fantastic club, a well-run club and it’s a big opportunity for me,” he said.

“I will give my all for the club and hopefully we can be successful on the park.

“I’m buzzing to be here. All the boys have welcomed me with open arms.”

Meanwhile Hearts youngster Andy Irving is relishing the opportunity to learn from his more experienced midfield partner Glenn Whelan.

The 19-year-old academy graduate has been a regular in Craig Levein’s first team so far this season, starting three of Hearts’ four league matches prior to the international break.

Irving was joined in the starting XI by former Stoke and Aston Villa man Whelan for the last two of those games and feels he has benefited from playing alongside the 35-year-old.

“He’s such a good player,” said Irving. “As soon as he came in for training, I could just tell how good he was instantly.

“It’s good that he makes the game look so easy. He’s so composed and relaxed and it helps me as well.

“If he’s speaking to me and telling me what to do, obviously. I’m going to listen to him because he’s had such a good career.”

Hearts resume their Ladbrokes Premiership campaign against Motherwell at Tynecastle on Saturday, looking to secure their first victory of the league season and climb from their current position of 11th place in the table.