Nathaniel Atkinson reflects on cup final memories, a whirlwind start in Scotland and adulation of the Hearts support

Souttar has been absent with an ankle problem since being forced off in the 2-2 draw with Dundee United in March, while Craig Halkett took a significant blow to his ankle in the 2-1 semi-final victory over Hibs at Hampden Park. Manager Robbie Neilson is insistent both players will be available for selection at the national stadium, but neither can afford any setbacks with the showpiece encounter now just three weeks away.

Atkinson found himself in a very similar situation last year while still plying his trade in his native Australia as Melbourne City advanced toward the A-League Grand Final and a meeting with Sydney FC. The 22-year-old was in a race against time to firstly free himself of injury and then prove his fitness in order to win a place in the starting XI. He managed to do so, and in spectacular fashion. After helping the side to defeat Macarthur FC 2-0 in the semis, he then scored his side’s first goal and won the man-of-the-match award as Melbourne rebounded from an early setback to beat Sydney 3-1 and lift the trophy.

"Last season was a bit different because I was injured for a lot of the season,” he said. “For me it was just about getting myself fit and in the best position to play. Thankfully this time around I'm fit and healthy with games coming in every week. Everyone is just looking forward to the 21st of May.

"I got about 45 minutes in the last game of the season, and then I played 85 minutes of the semi-final and the full game in the final.

“I know what it’s like for the guys, it was disappointing with Halkett going down in the semi-final. He was a big miss for the rest of the game as well. He’s a big presence and a big player for us. And Soapy has been out for a while and it’s good for us to make the