It remains unknown as to whether Saturday’s Scottish Cup Final will be Ellis Simms’ last game in a Hearts shirt, but if it is, he has the chance to cement himself into Gorgie folklore before returning to Merseyside.
The Everton player has made quite the impression at Tynecastle, so much so, that Hearts manager Robbie Neilson has expressed his desire to keep the striker for next season.
That decision ultimately lies with Everton, however after such a successful spell at Tynecastle, if Simms was to be sent out on loan again, another stint in the capital is surely something that would work out well for all parties.
The Englishman admits that the loan deal has surpassed his expectations and now he is fully focussed on delivering Hearts’ first Scottish Cup since 2012.
“It’s a massive game ahead, we need to remain focused, train well and give ourselves the best chance to win this game,” explained Simms.
“Coming here was mainly to play as many games as possible. But this has been a great run, getting to the final has been a bonus but the aspirations are to go all the way now and win it.”
Simms broke the deadlock in the semi-final victory over rivals Hibernian and is now relishing the cup final atmosphere.
“That was a great experience,” he said.
“The semi-final goal was special. It helped get us to where we are. It’s gone now though; we want to win the final and not just be part of it. We have worked hard to get to where we are, and we are really looking forward to the occasion.
“The fans were great; the atmosphere was something else. It was a really great occasion and I’m sure the final will be even better.
“We are underdogs this time which makes it a bit different,” he added.
“We just want to focus on ourselves and do everything we possibly can, work hard, train well and give ourselves the best chance to come out on top.”
On the prospect of returning to Gorgie next season, Simms said:
“It is totally down to Everton, they own me at the moment, I’m an Everton player.
“My focus is on the final and then the summer comes round, and I’ll have a couple of weeks to recover and see what the future holds.”
