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John Armstrong 2009/10

Where were you brought up and what team did you support growing up?

I was born in Loanhead and I have always supported Hearts. In fact I joined them when I was 11 years old.

When did you start playing football and who did you play for as a youth?

I started playing football at about 9 years old. I played for Loanhead and then joined Hearts.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

My Mum and Dad without question. Probably more my Dad. He took me to games and gave me all possible support.

What has been your best achievement in football so far?

Winning the Milk Cup in Ireland. This is one of the biggest under 16 youth tournaments at Premier level. and Hearts beat Manchester United in the semi finals before beating Irish Club Belvedere in the final.

What has been your biggest disappointment?

Cowden failing to get promoted after leading the League for most of last season. What made it even worse was to be the better team against Stenny in the play offs but to lose on penalties.

Who are the biggest characters you have met in football and why?

Craig Levein when he was Manager at Hearts. He had a fear factor about him. I also had great respect for John McGlynn ( now Raith Rovers Manager). He was a senior youth coach at Hearts and was very good to be around.

Who is the best player you have seen in the flesh and one that you have played with?

Best I have seen is Lionel Messi. Speaking as a defender, the best Centre Half is John Terry of Chelsea. I also played against Barry Ferguson in a Reserve match against Rangers. He was having his first game after returning from injury.

You spent two loan spells at the club and turned down other offers to sign permanently. You obviously enjoy playing for the Blue Brazil?

I love it here. The supporters, the coaches and the team all have made me feel so welcome. I really enjoy working with the gaffer as well.

You have worked under various coaches at Hearts - how do Danny Lennon and Iain Jenkins compare?

I've been lucky and had a lot of good coaches. The gaffer and Jenks are pretty similar. They both go into detail on positions, playing style of opponents etc. It makes such a big difference for the squad to be so organized with so much advance preparation for games.

How do you rate the current Cowden squad?

Obviously very good. The team spirit is brilliant and everyone plays for each other. There is a good mix of experience and youth. The youngsters are very good and learning fast from each game we play.

You have formed an impressive partnership with Joe Mbu this season and Darren McGregor last season. How highly do you rate these two?

They are very easy to play with and both could easily make the step up to a higher level.

What are your hopes for this season in the Second Division?

To put up a wee challenge for the Championship.We certainly don't fear any one and we can keep going on winning. The team is more than capable of going all the way.

Where does your nickname Chopper come from?

It was given to me when I went full time for Hearts at age 16. I had quite a reputation for hard tackling.

Who's got the best/worst dress sense at the club?

Darren McGregor has the best and Paul McQuade is definitely the worst.

Who's most likely to sook up to the gaffer to get a game?

Robbo does everything for the gaffer. He is basically an apprentice (like Beaky).

Tell us something we won't know about you?

I voted for Jedward on the X Factor.

Have you got a message for the fans?

Thanks for being so brilliant with myself. The squad really appreciate your continued support and are proud to play for you.