'I learned a lot': Former Glentoran star highlights role of Irish League club in Hearts transfer
MJ Kamson-Kamara has highlighted the role Glentoran played in his development after he sealed a summer move to Scottish Premiership outfit Hearts, declaring “I can only say thank you”.
The 20-year-old spent last season on loan at The Oval from Lincoln City and earned widespread praise for his performances.
Kamson-Kamara made 23 league appearances for Declan Devine’s side and helped them reach a second consecutive BetMcLean Cup final – they were beaten in extra-time by Linfield – alongside securing a European return for the first time in three years.
He was named in NIFWA’s Team of the Year and was also nominated for Young Player of the Year with his Irish League form catching the eye of Hearts, who finished second behind Celtic in Scotland’s top-flight last term.
A temporary stint in Northern Ireland helped Kamson-Kamara earn a four-year contract at Tynecastle and he will be competing in Champions League qualifying this summer – Hearts have been drawn against Sturm Graz of Austria.
“I enjoyed it,” Kamson-Kamara told HeartsTV. “The fans were great, the players, the manager, the coaches were all great with me.
“I learned a lot at that club and at that level, living away (from home) as well in a different country, which I've never done before.
"It was a very enjoyable one and I can only say thank you to Glen's players, staff and fans.”
Hearts have been dealt a double summer blow with both captain Lawrence Shankland and manager Derek McInnes leaving for rivals Rangers.
Since the arrival of Brighton & Hove Albion owner Tony Bloom – he completed a £9.86 million investment last summer – Hearts have utilised his Jamestown Analytics firm to help aid player recruitment, identifying stars from a range of countries.
That model will once again be put to work this summer as the Edinburgh club look to keep building and Kamson-Kamara is excited for what the future holds.
“I can't wait to represent this massive club,” he added. “The history of the club, the fans as well, and just the atmosphere at Tynecastle.
"I just can't wait to get going. I can imagine when the stadium is full. The atmosphere will be crazy and now I'm here, I can imagine it'll be just immense.
“I can't wait to meet everyone now. A lot of good players with good experience. I can't wait to learn from them and just get better and better.
“It's going to be amazing to be going across Europe and playing against massive teams, massive fans, massive stadiums.
"Especially the Champions League, which from being down in England, there's something I'm not used to. It’s a big spotlight for a player like me, a young player. So, 100 per cent, I can't wait to get going, really."