Stephen Duke-McKenna on team spirit and the city of Perth

Stephen Duke-McKenna is excited to get back on home soil in the William Hill Premiership this coming Sunday.

The attacking midfielder has now made two appearances since arriving on loan from Harrogate Town – one in the Scottish Cup and one in the league.

We return to action at McDiarmid Park this weekend when Hearts are the visitors for an early 12pm kick-off, which is live on Sky Sports.

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“Every game is obviously important for us,” Duke-McKenna said. “I love playing football and I can’t wait for the next game to come around, the next test, the next battle.

“I’m looking to show a lot more in the coming weeks. I feel I still have a lot more to show and a lot to give. Training has been great so far and I can’t wait until we gel even more.”

On his opening two matches for the club, he added: “I had a little shaky start against Hamilton in the cup and was getting used to the speed of the game.

“I felt like I showed more of what I could do in my league debut against Kilmarnock, although the result was disappointing.

“In football you are going to win and lose games, but you continue trying to do the right things. We tried to carry out the plan against Kilmarnock but, on the day, it wasn’t to be. We’re more than capable of playing a lot better than we did in that game.”

He added: “The boys have all been very welcoming. They made me feel welcome straight from the word go.

“They are a good bunch of lads with good banter and there is a nice connection. We know where we are in the league but are all sticking together.”

Once the hard work has been put in at McDiarmid Park, Duke-McKenna has been getting to know the city and this week paid a visit to Perth Museum.

“My little boy and brother were up so we have been going around to see a bit of Perth and went to the museum,” he said. “We were all able to learn a few things.

“I like to get to know my surroundings. Football can be quite full-on, so it is also nice to have something to do in your free time. I’ve enjoyed exploring the city and finding out more about it.”