I can trust you’ll capture my ugly side, Nick
Nectar learning to be streetwise under Monty
NECTAR TRIANTIS admits he needs to get ugly to play the beautiful game.
The Hibs utility man concedes Scottish football has been a steep learning curve since his loan switch from Sunderland, especially when it comes to being physical.
The 20-year-old made his debut as a centre-back in the home defeat to St Mirren last month, but has been deployed as a defensive midfielder recently.
But regardless of where boss Nick Montgomery chooses to play him, the Australian admits football north of the border has taught him that he needs to become more streetwise.
He said: “I’ve learned it’s a very aerial and physical game and I have learned a lot from that, how to deal with balls in the air, crosses, the ugly side of the game.
“Players here have experienced that for many years and are streetwise. All these little things help me develop as a player.
“It was tough in that first game and we’d a run of games where we didn’t have a positive result.
“It was an eye-opener but it looks like we’ve picked things up.
“I feel a lot more comfortable. It takes time to settle and gel into the team.
“The switch to midfield has helped. I am happy to play centre-half or midfield, it’s wherever the team needs me and I am just happy to give my all.”
Triantis played under Montgomery at Central Coast Mariners back home before making the switch to the Black Cats last summer.
And the January recruit admits he is indebted to Monty for showing faith in him.
Ahead of the visit of Livingston, he added: “It just puts belief in me. You can see it in my game, I am playing with confidence.
“The gaffer didn’t have to sell the move, it was a great fit for me and for the club.
“It’s a good model here and I fit well into the team.
“I am getting out of it what I hoped I would, 100 per cent. It’s a great league and a good standard. And as a young player I am learning off the more experienced players and picking up stuff every day.
“My relationship with the manager has always been positive. He has always been good for me and I can’t thank him enough for the belief and trust he puts in me.
“The way he does that for everybody, he is a great manager and a great man.”
Montgomery, meanwhile, revealed Martin Boyle will miss today’s game as he recovers from the sickening head knock he suffered against Rangers last weekend. He said: “I spoke to Martin this morning, and he’s still not feeling great. “He’s progressing slowly and the international break, gives him a chance to recover.”