Australian was an A-League champion before heading to Gorgie from down under in 2022.
Nat Atkinson knows Hearts fans might struggle to comprehend how this season’s Hampden hardships can be a springboard for success with Sunday’s semi final setback still raw.
As a raw 20-year-old he wasn’t sure how to digest the pain of being so close yet so far. That was until a senior member of City’s squad told him it would be the fire to light their drive to glory. And that’s exactly how it turned out. So it’s no wonder the Jambos ace has urged his team mates to lift themselves off the canvas after a second semi final KO of the season to Rangers and prove they can land a big one next season.
“So it is about growth. We obviously have to believe in ourselves and want to grow, look at the mistakes we make and learn from them. “The good thing about the manager is that he is a cool and collected type of guy. When he first came in and results were not going our way early on, everyone goes for the gaffer’s head.
Atkinson had to sit out the first of this season’s semi finals against Rangers - November’s 3-1 Viaplay Cup defeat - through injury. But he insists the Jambos’ progress between those two Hampden performances was clear for all to see. Now it’s about taking the next step to prove they really can close the gap on the Old Firm.
Steven Naismith Scottish Premiership
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Liam Boyce injury update as Hearts boss Steven Naismith eyes return for strikerThe Northern Ireland forward has been out of action since suffering a serious hamstring injury in early December.
Read more »
Steven Naismith shares Hearts methods to avoid third place collapseA win over Kilmarnock will all but confirm the Jambos as best of the rest after seeing a double digit lead evaporate last season.
Read more »
Steven Naismith has Hearts following David Moyes transfer blueprintNaismith took notes as he watched how Moyes built his Everton squad and the jambos boss wants to do similar at Tynecastle.
Read more »
Steven Naismith Hearts route pleases Ryan Stevenson with homegrown signingsThe ex Gorgie star explains in his latest Record Sport column the importance of homegrown stars.
Read more »
Steven Naismith: Hearts boss insists he won't need a bigger squad for European footballSteven Naismith, the manager of Hearts, has stated that he does not require a larger squad even if the team qualifies for European group stage football. Naismith has already made plans for the summer transfer window and has signed several players on pre-contracts. He is also focused on providing opportunities for the club's young players. Despite the potential for at least six group games in the Conference League next season, Naismith believes that an inflated squad is unnecessary.
Read more »
Steven Naismith's Successful Anniversary as Hearts BossSteven Naismith celebrates his one-year anniversary as Hearts boss, proving the benefits of stability with impressive results. Despite a rocky start, Naismith has won 14 out of the last 19 games, securing a third-place finish and a Scottish Cup semi-final spot.
Read more »