Heart of Midlothian Football Club today announces that midfielder Bruno Aguiar has left Tynecastle following the expiration of his contract.

The former Benfica player, who arrived at Tynecastle in January 2006, became a free agent after his contract finished yesterday.

Speaking to Hearts News from his home in Portugal today, the 28-year-old said his next career move would be taken with his family in mind.

Wishing the club all the best for the future, he said: "My time at Hearts is finished and I am sad about that but these things happen in football. But I have to think of the future now and what is best for my family.

"They are the most important thing to me and they are my priority.

"I gave my best at all times for Hearts and I was very happy at the club. The cup win was tremendous as was finishing second in the league. I was out injured for a long time as well and the club was very supportive of me at that time which I was very grateful about.

"I would like to say thank-you to everyone for all the memories and I have to say I was proud of my time at Hearts."

After three-and-a-half seasons in Gorgie, Bruno is unsure where he will be playing his football next season but hopes Hearts have successful campaigns both domestically and in the Europa League.

"I hope very much that the team can build on the success of this season," he added. "I want to see them do well in Europe and who knows, with a bit of luck, they may have the chance of challenging Celtic and Rangers.

"The club deserves the best and I hope they achieve it."