Yan Dhanda says Hearts fans are best in Scotland and details family connection

Yan Dhanda has branded Hearts fans as the BEST in Scotland after officially clinching his move to Tynecastle.

In what was the worst-kept secret in Scottish football, Dhanda penned a three-year deal with the Jambos after leaving Ross County on a free transfer. The talented playmaker, 25, has emerged as one of the top attackers in the Scottish Premiership after catching the eye during his two years in Dingwall, playing a major role in saving the Staggies from the drop.

Now, he’ll get the chance to flourish in front of 20,000 Hearts fans every second week, as well as showcasing his ability on the European stage. Dhanda has been inundated with messages from the Gorgie faithful ever since news broke earlier this year that he had penned a pre-contract with the Edinburgh club.

And the Liverpool academy graduate can’t wait to pull on the famous maroon after revealing his family have been season ticket holders for 20 years. He told Hearts TV: “I know they are amazing fans and probably the best in Scotland. I’m very excited. I’ve had so many positive messages from people just wanting me to be announced.

“Obviously I couldn’t say, but now it’s done I’m delighted to be here. Hearts is in my family. My grandad and uncle have had a season ticket here so I know how passionate the supporters are and I’m just so happy to be here.

“My uncle and my grandad live in Scotland. My uncle was born here and they’ve had a season ticket for 20 years. Since I’ve been growing up, Hearts has been in the family. They’ve supported Hearts and every time they come to Birmingham and stay with the family, all they speak about is Hearts and checking Hearts results. Since I’ve been around seven or eight I’ve been around it. I know how much this club means to them and the supporters as well. I just can’t wait to play at this stadium in front of these supporters.”

Delighted boss Steven Naismith said: “It’s more really positive news to get Yan in the door and announced. I think it’s clear to see that he’s one of the most exciting players in the league, and it’s another statement on our part as we look to add the best and brightest to our ranks ahead of a big season for the club.

“If you look back at his career, he dealt with the pressure of being a top prospect in a big club’s academy at Liverpool and decided he didn’t want to just be comfortable by being associated with a big club, he wanted to go out and play and progress his career.

“He did that at Swansea City and Ross County, and now he’s getting his rewards for all of his hard work over the past few years by coming to Hearts. Yan’s at a great age and stage in his career, and I’m very excited to add a player of his quality to the team, with scope to progress even further and I know he’ll settle in well to the squad.

“That takes us to six signings so far this summer and it was really important for us to get our business done early. The squad is really beginning to take shape ahead of what is going to be a massive season, domestically and in Europe, and we’re all looking forward to it.”