Ellis Simms: Learning from Everton hero Duncan Ferguson, scoring first Hearts goal and derby fever for Hibs

The on-loan Everton striker celebrated his first Hearts goal on his first Hearts start as Motherwell were dispatched 2-0 at Tynecastle Park on Saturday. Aside from the close-range finish, he added useful pace and link-up play to the Edinburgh club’s attack in a fine performance.

Simms at 21 is a more reserved character than Ferguson at the same age, which is no bad thing. The pair share some similarities in styles of play and Ferguson’s influence on this Goodison prodigy is discernible.

“Duncan is a hero at Everton. Obviously he’s in the caretaker manager role now. We do finishing drills and he gives me little tips, but it’s an honour to work with him and learn from him,” said Simms.

“Because of my build, people might think I’m a target man, but I like to do the other side of the game, running in behind and running the channels, so I’m sure they’ll get to know my game in the next few weeks.

“I think there will be quite a few Everton staff keeping a close eye on me. Duncan will be one as he’s Scottish. I’ve had a few messages from some of the people at Everton which is nice to hear.

“I get on well with Duncan. Some people might think he’s not a nice guy, but when you work with him day-to-day you know that he’s a nice guy who you can speak to about anything. It’s good to work under him.”

Simms couldn’t consult Ferguson before moving to Scotland but, after just one and a half games, the player is convinced this loan experience can benefit him.

“Because it all happened so quickly, I didn’t get the chance to speak to Duncan about it. There were a few loan opportunities but when I heard about this one it enticed me. I knew it was a competitive league and I knew this was the place to be to improve my game.

“It was unbelievable