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Johansson relishes Hibs challenge

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Johansson keen to make derby debut

Jonatan Johansson is relishing the prospect of playing in Scotland again after his move to Hibernian.

The 33-year-old former Rangers striker is in line to make his Hibs debut against Hearts in Saturday's Edinburgh derby at Tynecastle.

Johansson, who has just spent two seasons in Sweden with Malmo, said: "I missed British football.

"There's something special about it and I can't wait to get on the pitch. I had a good time in Scotland last time."

Johansson said he hoped to be given the nod by manager Mixu Paatelainen on Saturday.

"All the derbies have that cup-final feeling to them and it's no different in England as well," he said.

"So, hopefully, my experience in football can help me, but all derbies are a one-off sort of cup final. It's a lot of passion. It's a great start."

I had a good time in Scotland last time and my wife is Scottish, so I think it will be a little bit easier

Jonatan Johansson

Johansson made his Old Firm debut exactly nine years ago on Saturday and he claims he quickly adapted to the added demands of the Glasgow derby.

"You get used to it because you go on the pitch and it's a football game," he said.

"You can feel the atmosphere all around you. But, on the pitch, you try to concentrate on what you are supposed to do and give 110%, so in that way it's not different."

And Johansson believes his previous experience should help the 91-time capped player settle in at Easter Road.

"It's been good actually because it's been a slow start," he said.

"I've been able to get back into Scottish life and back into training without maybe the pressure. I've been very impressed in training with the squad.

"I have been here just over two weeks and I've just been trying to get back to fitness and getting to know the guys and how they play. It has also been good watching the games, but I'm ready to go now.

"When you come to a new club, you hope for the best and do your best in training and games, so that's no different.

"But, of course, I had a good time in Scotland last time and my wife is Scottish, so I think it will be a little bit easier."

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see also
Johansson agrees Hibernian switch
13 Nov 08 |  Hibernian


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