Hearts' Demetri Mitchell sees big future for Scott McTominay

Demetri Mitchell trains yesterday as Hearts prepare for this evenings visit of Kilmarnock. Picture: SNS.

Mitchell came through the Old Trafford youth ranks with the midfielder, pictured below, since they were both aged eight, and is thrilled to see the youngster establishing himself as a recognised first-team regular.

Amid the praise bestowed on the Lancaster-born player from the likes of manager Jose Mourinho and United legend Paul Scholes, the battle among international suitors has also cranked up.

New Scotland manager Alex McLeish is keen for McTominay, who has a Scottish father, to pledge his future north of the Border, while England have no intention of rolling over.

On loan Mitchell refused to divulge his friend’s thinking yesterday but foresees a successful club and international career for McTominay.

“I spoke to him about it the other day about Scotland and England but I won’t tell you what we said,” said Mitchell, who is set to make his ninth appearance for Hearts in tonight’s Premiership visit of Kilmarnock after making the switch from United last month.

“Whatever country he plays for then they are going to be happy, because he is a top player.

“He is a player that managers can trust and he someone who works so hard for the team.

“He is a good player but when he was younger he was a lot smaller. In fact he was about my height.

“He has really grown up and he is playing some excellent football right now.

“We have played together since I was eight and we have grown up together. We also went away on a pre-season tour together and we were the new boys so that brought us closer together.”

The pair both made their full United debuts in last May’s 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace and Mitchell says McTominay’s rise to prominence has given him hope he can make the grade himself when he returns to Old Trafford during the close season.

“The manager gave me my debut and he has given Scott his as well, so he is giving youth a chance,” commented Mitchell. “It is encouraging to see because I still have my sights set on playing one day for Manchester United.

“I am just worried at the moment about achieving as much as possible and doing well with Hearts.

“We are still in the Scottish Cup and we need to finish in the top six, so there is lots to play for.

“Kilmarnock are only a few points behind us with games in hand so it is important we get a result.

“We have the quarter-finals of the Scottish Cup against Motherwell on Sunday as well and we want to go far in that.”