SUNDERLAND'S Nectarios Triantis returned to Hibernian on loan relishing and ready for the physicality of Scottish football.

The 21-year-old centre-half, who can also play as a defensive midfielder, spent the second half of last season at Easter Road on loan from the Black Cats, making 14 appearances in all competitions.

The Australian came back to Leith on a season-long loan and was thrown back in for Hibs’ Premiership draw against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Sunday, where captain Joe Newell’s opener was cancelled out by a late Bruce Anderson penalty after Triantis had rattled the Killie bar in the second half following a terrific run.

“It feels good to be back,” he said. “I enjoyed playing, I like Edinburgh, I like the club, I like the fans. So no complaints.

“I only joined a few days ago, so it was a bit chaotic I’d say. But I felt good in the game. Most of the boys are here from last season so I just picked up from where I left off.

“I think it’s good that I’m versatile, but I think my strong point heading into this season will be in midfield.

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“I think you can say that I’m comfortable carrying the ball. I also have those defensive traits, so I think it’s a real positive for not only myself, but the team.

“It helps that I played here last season. I think you saw last season, I had a bit of a slow start when I came here in January but I think I took that time to adapt. I think this season I can hit the ground running and have those positive performances.

“It was hard last season. It’s just a different brand of football.

“Each respective country it has its own style and so does Scotland. I think every player has the time to adapt, but I think now I’ve passed that and I’m just looking forward.

“I think Scottish football is very physical, very fast-paced and has very talented players.

“There are top players in each team and you do have to deal with them and win those individual battles.

“For myself, I do like a battle so I think the league does suit me. I just had to have that time to get going.

“I wouldn’t say that physicality is a typically Australian thing. I think it’s just about the person. And the person I am, you either have it or you don’t.”