James Penrice has taken the step up from Livingston to Hearts in his stride.
The left-back signed a pre-contract to make the short switch from West Lothian to Edinburgh in the summer as one of the Jambos’ recruits.
Tynecastle recruitment was praised at the time but questions began to be asked after a terrible start to the season. But Penrice is not one of those being criticised.
While big things were expected of Yan Dhanda and Blair Spittal as they moved from Ross County and Motherwell, the 25-year-old was a bit more under the radar.
But he has ended up being one of their best seasons, although Hearts midfielder Malachi Boateng would perhaps rival him.
Hearts fans loving James Penrice display
James Penrice continued his fine individual Hearts form as they faced Celtic tonight, despite his side ending up comfortable losers.
Particularly in the first half, he rampaged up and down the left flank, contributing to the defensive and offensive causes.
In fact, he was the most creative player on the pitch in the first half as he laid three good chances on for teammates.
Jambos fans enjoyed watching the ex-Livingston man in full flow once again.
One said: “Penrice is such an asset to us.”
Another wrote: “James Penrice has been Heart of Midlothian Player of the year so far this season.”
Another added: “Penrice is a very, very good player.”
While another said: “James Penrice the best LB in the league.”
Penrice was the talk of the Sky Sports studio at half-time.
Speaking at half-time, Jam Tarts legend John Robertson said: “Penrice has been magnificent so far. He’s been the best player on show.”
Martin O’Neill added: “We talked about the relationship that Kuhn and Johnston have on the right but Penrice has single-handedly dismantled that.
“He’s been absolutely terrific. He’s made great, great chances. Getting forward with a lot of confidence and doing really well.”
David Martindale talked up Penrice
Earlier in the season, Penrice’s former Livingston manager David Martindale waxed lyrical about his talent.
Despite losing him, the Lions boss remains a big fan of the former Partick Thistle man.
Responding to a discussion about him starting well at Hearts, he said: “I knew he would. Great legs, technically very, very good, competes in the air, good in his 1v1 duels and doesn’t mind a tackle. He’s got all of those attributes.”