HEARTS defender Michael Smith believes Edinburgh is the perfect place for him as he looks to re-ignite his World Cup dream.

The Northern Ireland defender was overlooked by Michael O’Neill for last month’s final World Cup group qualifiers with Germany and the Czech Republic.

But he has not given up hope of persuading his national team boss that he should be involved when they take on Switzerland in next month’s play-off showdown.

And with O’Neill living in the Scottish capital, Smith hopes he will have plenty of opportunity to impress.

“I think I’m in the best place to catch his eye,” said the Jambos full-back, ahead of today’s Murrayfield clash with St Johnstone.

“The manager has been to a few games and we’ve had a chat, so I just need to try to concentrate on my appearances here and see where it takes me.

“We’ve been dealt a good draw for the play-offs by landing Switzerland and we’ve got a great chance of reaching the World Cup.

“Fingers crossed I can do something over the next few weeks and maybe be involved.

“It would be nice to be involved. It’s every boy’s dream to go to a World Cup but we will just need to see what happens.”