Hearts manager Craig Levein has piled praise on Manchester City loanee Ryotaro Meshino.
The Japanese forward has swapped the Etihad for Gorgie this season. On his second appearance in Edinburgh he really impressed.
Meshino helped create Hearts’ first goal and scored their second, but it wasn’t enough, with Hearts losing 3-2 to Motherwell.
Levein says the Citizens attacker can now effectively contribute to his side.
He told the Herald (Page six, 18/09/19): “It’s not just about Ryo’s fitness. I’m trying to give him time to settle and feel relaxed. He has had a lot of things happen to him over the last two or three weeks. But last week in training he was better than the previous week.
“He has had a good period now and has and apartment, a car, a UK phone – all these things that help you feel relaxed.
“I saw enough on Saturday to know that Ryo can help us now. The more he plays, trains and understands his teammates, the better he will be. I was really pleased with his impact.”
Meshino should start the Edinburgh derby
Against Motherwell, the Japanese star showed that he should be starting the derby against Hibs. His pace and dribbling against a Hibs backline that has conceded 16 goals in five games could cause damage.
His goal contributions against Motherwell were well taken. The City loanee picked up the ball outside the area and sent Well centre-back Peter Hartley the wrong way with a turn, with his shot eventually turned into the net by Uche Ikpeazu.
Meshino’s second was real class though. He skipped by a few opponents before rifling the ball into the bottom corner. It was a great display that showed his undeniable attacking qualities.
City will no doubt be pleased with Meshino’s start to life in Scotland, as is Levein.
The Hearts boss has said he has been pleased with Meshino’s impact. He must trust the Citizens attacker now by playing him from the off against Hibs.