Hearts loanee Garang Kuol has revealed he was advised by Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe to 'go wherever you'll play the most'. The Magpies' move for the former A-League wonderkid was made official earlier this month, and the teenager was the subject of loan interest from several clubs.
Kuol was a wildcard pick in Australia's World Cup squad, and made two substitute appearances as the Socceroos were knocked out by eventual winners Argentina. The 18-year-old was then pictured alongside loans coordinator Shola Ameobi for talks at Tynecastle, before ultimately opting to make a switch to Hearts until the end of the season.
Kuol made his Scottish Premiership debut as a second-half substitute in Hearts' narrow home win over St Mirren on Friday night, with Barrie McKay scoring the only goal of the game. The loanee has now discussed the talks with Howe and Robbie Neilson which led to him agreeing to the short-term switch.
READ MORE: Bruno Guimaraes insists Newcastle 'can dream' about Champions League amid transfer admission
Kuol told The Scotsman: “I had a small discussion with [Eddie Howe] and he said go wherever you’ll play the most. Development is key for young players.
"The gaffer here said he’ll play me. All he said I need to do is work hard. He told me he’ll bring me off the bench and then gradually I have to work my way into the starting XI.”
It has been a meteoric rise for Kuol, who did not become a starter for Central Coast Mariners until his final few weeks with his former club. Anticipation is building around the recent Newcastle recruit, and the young forward admits he is attempting to keep his feet on the ground.
Kuol added: “I’m just trying to focus on the future, and playing and training well every week. That’s the main focus. But, yeah, sometimes I’m sitting and thinking: ‘I can’t believe I’m actually here’. It’s just surreal and I just have to thank God.”
READ NEXT
Fulham make spiky Newcastle referee claim as Marco Silva rages at VAR after Dan Burn escapes
Newcastle United notes: Bruno mood lifted, new record and Joelinton decision meeting
Isak's perfect response and Saint-Maximin handed opportunity as Howe admits Newcastle 'temptation'
The 'big moment' that Eddie Howe feels will unlock more benefits from £63million move
Alexander Isak talks about his 'number 10' role and reflects on Newcastle United win over Fulham
