Heart of Midlothian extended Lewis Neilson’s contract until 2026 before sending him on loan to St Johnstone for the season.

The centre-back joins up with former Hearts duo Craig Levein and Andy Kirk at McDiarmid Park where he will gain further first-team experience in the Scottish Premeirship.

Neilson spent last season on loan at Partick Thistle in the Championship, making 43 appearances in all competitions.

Steven Naismith explained the reasoning behind the loan deal, citing the competition he woulf face for a place at Hearts with Frankie Kent, Craig Halkett, Daniel Oyegoke, Stephen Kingsley and Kye Rowles ahead of him in the pecking order.