Cochrane: It's been a privilege to play for Hearts

Alex Cochrane is proud of the way he overcame doubts to go on and have a brilliant season with Hearts.

Robbie Nielson’s side finish the Scottish Premiership campaign in third spot, having just been promoted from the Championship, to secure European football next season. 

Alex says things turned out nearly perfectly, as he made 40 appearances for the Jam Tarts. He also played his part in helping the team reach the Scottish Cup final, starting in the 2-0 defeat to Rangers.

“I’ve definitely done better than I was expecting to,” he reflected. “There’s always moments in the season where you have blips – I’ve definitely had those. But I came through the other side.

“I think I will look back on this season proudly and obviously the success the club has had in the league and the cup is something to be very proud of and it’s been a privilege.

“I didn’t know much about the league when I first joined, so there were a few queries and I had and a few doubts. But as I started to play and find my feet, it’s been something I have enjoyed. I think I coped well with the league and I have improved as a player.”

The 22-year-old says the biggest improvement he has made is mentally, while on the pitch he had to demonstrate his versatility, turning out in various positions on the left.

“My mental resilience has been the biggest improvement like coping with different things – the atmosphere at different grounds or having a dip in form. 

“In terms of on the pitch, you have to adapt to what the manager wants and I have always felt it’s good to have versatility in your game. if the manager needs you to do a job in a certain position, then it’s good that he can trust you.

“I’ve learned to adapt to different scenarios and games and bring my own ability to the position. I think I have done well with that.”