Naisy tempted to Tynecastle by ‘whole package’
SCOTLAND star Steven Naismith insists manager Craig Levein and the ‘whole package’ at Hearts were the reasons he opted for a loan move to Tynecastle.
The 31-year-old yesterday completed his switch from Norwich City until the end of the season and admits he was impressed by the direction of the club with Levein, whom he worked under at international level, at the helm.
The former Rangers and Everton player Naismith was given a tour of the club’s state-of-the art Oriam training base yesterday and was also shown around the new £15 million main stand at the redeveloped stadium.
Despite interest from clubs south of the border and being linked with former club Kilmarnock, Naismith insists he was keen to play his part in the exciting project at Hearts.
Naismith said: “Hearts showed the most enthusiasm to get something done as quick as possible and I liked that.
“I took a bit of time to think about all my options and it’s more about the whole package rather than moving for the sake of moving, and Hearts ticked all the boxes.
“As you get older you think more about the type of team you’re going to, what’s involved in terms of, are there some young players? Is the squad good?
“It’s not just about getting football, I’m delighted to have the opportunity to come to Hearts.
“It’s a club that’s had it’s difficulties in the past but it’s definitely flourishing now under the leadership of Ann Budge and the gaffer as well. If I can help that move forward, I would be delighted to do so.
“It feels very good to be here, I spent the morning between the training ground and the stadium and it’s incredible the changes that have been made, especially at the stadium.”
Naismith, who scored 46 league goals in 124 league starts for Rangers and Everton before making a £8.5m move to Norwich two years ago, earned some of his 45 caps playing under Levein for Scotland and admits the chance to be reunited with the 53-year was also a factor.
He added: “Knowing the gaffer played it’s part because I know what he is about and I know how he works, what he expects and how he likes things to run.
“I enjoyed that when we were at Scotland together and that gives you a lot more comfort when you’re making a decision. it definitely played it’s part.
“There are a few familiar faces here with the likes of Kyle Lafferty, Don Cowie, Christophe Berra from Scotland and Jack Hamilton as well. That will make the transition easy.”
Naismith, meanwhile, admits he is ready to be thrown straight into Sunday’s Scottish Cup derby against Hibs despite a lack of competitive football this season.
He added: “It’s a good game to start with, I’m raring to go for the fact of being involved in matches but that adds a little bit more to it that it’s a derby at home.”