CALLUM Sandilands says the Hearts connections at Morton have helped him settle in following his loan move to Cappielow.
The midfielder has teamed up with former Jambos Bobby McLuckie and Harry Cochrane after joining the Ton on a season-long deal.
Sandilands featured as a substitute in Saturday’s friendly with Stranraer and is now determined to make an impact.
Last season, he bagged 12 goals from midfield while playing with Montrose in League One, giving him the belief that he can make the step up to the Championship.
“I’ve settled in quickly, I knew a few of the boys already which helped, but all the boys that are in have been really accommodating,” Sandilands told the Tele.
“They’re a great group, I’d heard of the interest from Morton a wee while ago.
“I was trying to get back in the building at Hearts first. I came out for training last week and got a phone call from Bobby [McLuckie] to see what the script was.
“As soon as I knew what was happening, I just wanted to get it done as quickly as possible.
“I’ve known Bobby for the past five years, so I know how he plays, then you’ve got Harry and others who’ve come through the Hearts pathway too.”
As he prepares for his first season in the second tier, Sandilands has already set his targets to continue adding goals and assists.
He believes his previous loan stint at Montrose has seen him develop into a more rounded player, but is focused on continuing his learning journey after checking in at Cappielow.
“At this age, it’s all about playing games and getting that experience,” Sandilands explained.
“Training with the Hearts first team, especially after how we did last season, was a really good experience.
“But the big thing is playing games, and I just want to keep getting those under my belt.
“I learned massively at Montrose. The first six months were different to last season because we were maybe a wee bit more under the cosh.
“Then last year, I was able to be a bit more of a leader within the group and I played a lot more minutes.
“A big thanks has to go to Stewart Petrie, the rest of the coaching staff and the squad.
“It’s always goals and assists for myself. Especially after getting into double digits last season, hopefully I can go and do that again.”
One area of the Morton squad with particular depth heading into the new season is the midfield.
Alongside Sandilands and Cochrane, the likes of Iain Wilson, Grant Gillespie, Michael Garrity and McLuckie will all be looking to make a big contribution.
Competition for places will be fierce, but it’s a challenge Sandilands is looking to embrace.
“The midfield is very well-rounded between the older boys and the younger boys,” he added.
“Harry’s got loads of games under his belt now as well.
“You need to make sure you keep your jersey once you’re in the team.”
