Daryl Horgan wasn’t aware Hibs gaffer Paul Heckingbottom has been a long-time fan of his.
But he’ll be even more popular with his new gaffer now after helping him secure a dream derby win over Hearts at Tynecastle.
The Irish winger bagged a brilliant brace to seal a priceless three league points that moves Hibs above their city rivals.
Their fightback after going a goal down to Craig Levein’s men ensured the Easter Road side remain unbeaten in the league since Heckingbottom’s arrival.
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As Barnsley boss he tried to sign Horgan from Dundalk – but couldn’t afford him.
Now his faith in the 26-year-old is being repaid.
Horgan took both goals superbly, especially his second that sent his manager and the travelling support wild with delight. And the Irish star hailed it as one of the best days of his career.
He said: “It feels incredible to score two and win the derby.
“We haven’t won here at Tynecastle in six years so to come back from behind, get three points and jump above Hearts all in one – it’s fantastic.
“We’ve five massive games coming up and want to finish as high up the table as possible.
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“Today ranks right up there in terms of highlights in my career. The whole day was special and the atmosphere was unreal.
“It was real, hair standing on the back of your neck stuff.
“Thankfully we managed to win the game so it’s all good. The gaffer didn’t mention that he tried to sign me before at Barnsley.
“I was actually on trial there as a kid when he was youth coach.
“So our paths have crossed a couple of times. I ended up going to Preston instead so it’s funny how things end up.”
Hibs were 11 points behind their city rivals in eighth spot when Heckingbottom replaced Neil Lennon as gaffer in February.
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Yesterday they jumped above Hearts into fifth with a fine display – on and off the ball.
Horgan’s two goals were well worked and they could have scored more in the second half.
But it was the resilience they showed when Hearts put them under pressure that’s a real sign of Heckingbottom’s influence.
Horgan said: “Hearts were on top before their goal but we reacted really well. We had a couple of good opportunities and Marc McNulty did unbelievably well for my goal.
“As an attacking player I always want to be in and around the goals and assists.
“I’d have liked more this season and I’ve been disappointed with myself on a few I’ve missed.
“But I’m happy as long as we’re winning and if I can play my part, even better. Getting the goals today was great.
“We’ve gone on a brilliant run, unbeaten in eight and playing some good stuff.
“We’re scoring and are difficult to beat.
“There’s always been a solid backline there because we have excellent defenders.
“But in the last while the manager has maybe put more of an onus on us being better at the back and as a team. Collectively, we’ve been solid.
“There are good signs – but it won’t mean anything if we throw it away in the last five games.
“The aim is to keep pushing and try to get into third or fourth.
“We have to try to drag the likes of Kilmarnock towards us and keep Hearts at bay.
“Every game from now on is going to be huge. We want to finish above everyone, not just Hearts. That’s the aim but it’ll be a scrap and a fight.
“There’s no reason why we can’t get into Europe. It would be unbelievable to play in the Europa League again, that’s what I wanted when I signed.
“I’ve been there before and it would be special to be involved in those nights.”
