Emiliano Marcondes relishing Hibs vs Hearts rivalry and hate as Danish playmaker says 'you can see it in their faces'

It's hasn't Emiliano Marcondes long to understand Scottish football is like a religion to supporters.

The Hibs playmaker hopes to strike a blow of biblical proportions in opposition territory and ensure it’s the green and white half of Edinburgh worshipping a derby victory for the first time this season. Marcondes arrived on loan from Bournemouth last month but, having never played in a two-club city, doubts he’s ever experienced a derby clash with as much hostility as is set to rain down from the stands at Tynecastle on Wednesday night.

Rather than wilt in the heat of battle though the Danish ace can’t wait to feed off the energy, passion and HATE. He said: “I love it! I love when there are more fans and when it’s louder. I’m a player who likes to play with emotion, it drives me when there is something at stake and it means something to people.

“I haven’t really felt that hate or rivalry yet in the city. I’ve only really met Hibs fans and not had the negative abuse from Hearts. Maybe that will come after this game!

“I feel the fans are really passionate here. They are maybe screaming a lot more when you walk out at half time and before the game. They are trying to get in your head. Even if sometimes I don’t understand the accent I can see in their faces it’s not nice things they’re shouting!

“You can feel it means so much to them. I also read an article that Scottish football has the most attendance per person in Scotland. That is a signal that everyone is coming to the stadium even if it’s cold here.

“It’s like a religion here. They come and support their team and although it’s not always positive they are here to show that they care.”

Hibs fought back from 2-0 down to take a point in the last derby meeting at