Aaron McEneff has revealed he’s held talks over his Hearts future after limited game time so far this season.
The Irishman has spoken with boss Robbie Neilson and sporting director Joe Savage after starting just one of the Jambos’ last seven competitive games.
He’s been given reassurances that he’s part of their long-term vision for the team and accepts that it’s down to him to force his way into the starting XI.
A goal against Celtic last weekend should help McEneff ’s case, but with Hearts back in the Premiership, he’s not content with a watching brief.
“I’ve spoken with the gaffer and with Joe,” he admitted. “I came here in January so I’ve got a long enough contract and I’m well within the plans of the club. It’s just been one of those things where I’ve been out of the team, lads have come in and done well and we’ve been winning games.
“It’s hard to change a winning team sometimes. When I get on the pitch it’s up to me to let my feet do the talking, try to impress the manager and push myself into the starting line-up.
“I wanted to play in the Scottish Premiership, experience the fans and play in these big games. I’ve come off the bench twice now, and at Parkhead you get a proper taste for it. It’s exciting and you want to be involved.
“Aberdeen is a massive game this weekend and the other two coming up are really important as well. I’ve been hearing loads of stories about the Edinburgh derby and how good it is. I want to be involved in these games. With the fans back, it makes it even more exciting.”
Now that Tynecastle can be filled with fans again, McEneff is even more determined to really show what he can do.
Previous experiences at Shamrock Rovers won’t compare with the most atmospheric stadium in the country when it's rocking, and he hopes to sample that when the Dons visit Gorgie on Sunday.
“I wanted to play for such a big club with a massive fanbase,” he told the Edinburgh Evening New s. “I’ve heard stories about how good it is when the place is packed and I’m hoping to experience that on Sunday,” said McEneff.
“You want to play every minute of every game and it can get frustrating when you aren’t playing. There is competition in the squad and the boys have done well. We’ve been winning games so you have to keep your head down and be ready when you get a chance.
“There’s no point sulking. That doesn’t get you anywhere. I’m just working hard to get back into the team. It’s important to stay level-headed because football is never straightforward.
“I haven’t played in a few of the games but I don’t get too low about it. I just come in every day with the same mindset and you need belief in yourself to get back in the team. The most important thing is to be ready.”
