NATHANIEL ATKINSON admits he has fulfilled a dream of playing in Europe after signing for Hearts.
The Australian right-back agreed a three-and-a-half year deal with the Gorgie side on Christmas Eve in a move from Melbourne City for an undisclosed fee is expected to arrive in Edinburgh in the coming days.
Atkinson came through City’s academy and enjoyed the high of scoring and being named man of the match in last season’s Grand Final victory over Sydney FC.
But the 22-year-old – a member of Australia’s Olympic squad that competed in Tokyo last year – admits he always wanted to test himself on the other side of the planet.
In a message to Melbourne fans, he said: “It’s always been a dream of mine to play in Europe, and while I’m sad to be leaving City, the time has come to test myself overseas and I hope that I can make everyone proud back home.
“Since joining City as a 15-year-old, it has been an incredible journey. I have had some amazing memories from my time there and being part of the first men’s team to win a Premiership and Championship for the club is something I will never forget.
“City fans have been amazing. I will never forget their support at last season’s Grand Final and I would like to thank them for everything they have done for me.”
Melbourne boss and former Hearts defender Patrick Kisnorbo has said that the Gorgie club will provide a great platform for the highly-rated defender to flourish.
While sad to see Atkinson leave, City director of football Michael Petrillo deserves the chance to showcase his talent in Europe.
He said: “Nathaniel is a fitting example of a player who has come through our Academy system, has proven himself at a professional level in Australia and now can test himself in Europe.
“It has been incredibly rewarding watching him develop both as a player on the pitch and as a young man off the pitch.
“Everyone at the club wishes Nathaniel good luck and he is always welcome at Melbourne City.”
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