Perry Kitchen on first day training with Hearts

Perry Kitchen has revealed United States head coach Jurgen Klinsmann played a big part in his move to Hearts.

The midfielder signed for the Tynecastle side on Wednesday on a two-and-a-half year contract after ending a five-year spell at DC United at the end of last year.

Klinsmann, who capped the 24-year-old three times during 2015, congratulated him on his "new adventure" on Twitter after his support of the move to Scotland became public.

"I did speak with him and he was very supportive of the decision and is excited for me to try this and continue my career," said Kitchen.

"With my contract expiring in the MLS, it seemed like the right time to try something new to continue growing as a player."

Jurgen Klinsmann, encouraged Kitchen's move to Hearts

Kitchen, who scored 10 goals in 175 appearances for DC United in the MLS, has also admitted he received encouragement from fellow-Americans and former Rangers players Carlos Bocanegra and Maurice Edu.

"My agent was also their agent," he said. "They connected with me and they loved their time in Scotland. That was very encouraging.

"The support here is great, the passion for the game and the club is second to none, and that was something that definitely interested me."

Carlos Bocanegra (left) and Maurice Edu back Kitchen's move

Kitchen will be in the squad for Hearts' visit to Dundee on Saturday but has already had an introduction to the Scottish game after a lengthy signing process.

He said: "I'm very impressed. My wife and I are settling in very well. I think the club is top class, with great fans, a great stadium and world-class facilities coming in.

"It seems like it's a very good mentality and a good DNA within the group. Guys that want to fight for each other and represent the club in the right way."