Rogers Mato explained the initial conversations that he had with Hearts officials and head coach Derek McInnes made his mind up that he wanted to join the Jambos.
Joining on an initial loan deal, before his permanent deal begins this summer, the forward admits he spoke to some former Hearts stars for advice but was already determined to show his loyalty and make the move to Gorgie.
Speaking to the media ahead of tomorrow’s match against Dundee United, Mato said:
“I think it's the best decision to come here because Hearts is one of the biggest teams in Scotland. There are a lot of good people here and when they called me and proposed to me the Hearts ideas, the Hearts way, I was impressed and were probably the ideas I had in my mind for my future.
“I really liked how the manager proposed me the Hearts ways, so that's why I didn't want to let them down. I gave them my trust to come here, and they did everything for me to be here so I couldn't let them down because I gave them the trust and I had to show my loyalty to them.
“I didn't know about the club that much, but I knew some Ugandans played here and one of them is a legend of the Ugandan football, David Obua, Toby Sibbick and Uche [Ikpeazu]. They are my colleagues and my great friends.
“It's time to work now. I'm here to step in, to do my best, whatever I can do to add to the team. I just need to work hard to add to the momentum they're on.”
When asked for his message to the fans, Mato replied:
“First, I want to thank them for the warm welcome they gave me. It's a bit heart-touching. It's great to have them here. I'm looking forward to giving them the happiness, though football is a game of happiness and sorrows. I'm looking forward to the happiness side more.”
Mato could be in line for a Hearts debut tomorrow night and asked if he was ready to step in, he responded, “I'm always ready.”
You can watch Rogers' press conference in full on Hearts TV.
