Hearts fans warm to Everton striker with Duncan Ferguson traits and derby goal will seal affections

After Ellis Simms had chased down a long ball forward in the dying moments of Hearts’ 2-0 victory over Motherwell at Tynecastle on Saturday to win a corner, a low rumble of appreciation rippled round the stadium.

This act of persistence seemed to have sealed the deal. It was as if the Hearts fans were saying, yes, you will do for us.

The Tynecastle side have been crying out for a No 9. The on-loan Simms certainly looks like he will fit the bill although as manager Robbie Neilson was careful to point out afterwards, the 6ft 1in forward is far more than just a target man.

This was perhaps for the benefit of his own players as much as anything else because Hearts did seem to opt for the Route One option more often than normal in the opening stages.

It’s very easy for teammates to settle into a habit of sending long balls in the direction of an imposing figure even if it is contrary to what they have been instructed to do.

Craig Brown used to complain that’s what happened whenever Duncan Ferguson played for Scotland, which is a relevant comparison. Ferguson has been a big influence on Simms at Everton. Although Frank Lampard is on the verge of being announced as the new manager at Goodison Park, it’s likely Ferguson will be retained as part of the coaching staff. Simms is pleased. “We do finishing drills and he gives me little tips, it’s an honour to work with him and learn from him,” he said.

Ferguson was supportive of his move north of the Border. “There were a few loan opportunities for me, but when I heard about this one it enticed me,” said Simms. “I knew it was a competitive league and I knew this was the place to be to improve my game.”

Like Ferguson, Simms will have to deal with being typecast as a battering ram