Craig Halkett has become the latest Hearts star to commit his future to the club by signing a new contract.
The defender has penned a new deal which will keep him at Tynecastle Park until the summer of 2026.
28-year-old Craig joined Hearts back in 2019 and has made 116 appearances in maroon, scoring 10 goals. His excellent form in season 2021/22 saw him rewarded with a maiden call up the Scotland squad, but injuries robbed him of the chance to build upon that last season.
Now back in the first team squad and working towards full fitness, head coach Steven Naismith is delighted to be able to call upon the services of another influential senior player.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, he said: “It’s another bit of really positive news that Halks has signed a new contract to stay at the club.
“Aside from his obvious ability, he’s a leader and well-respected inside the dressing room. He had a torrid time of it last season with injuries and you could see that his presence on the pitch was missed as the team went through a tough period.
“I’m delighted that he’s back in the first team picture and getting more and more minutes under his belt. His form prior to his injuries was excellent, which was proven with a Scotland call up, and I’m confident that Halks will be able to reach those levels again as he works back to full fitness. From there, he’ll get better and better as we continue a busy run of games.”
Sporting Director Joe Savage said: “We’ve been working really hard to get these deals once so I’m really happy to get another over the line.
“We want to keep our best players at the club so that the manager has as many options as possible on the pitch, and also to protect the club’s assets.
“Halks is a very experienced player and having been here for four years he gets Hearts, knows the demands of the club and what it takes to be successful here.
“From my side, the dialogue with other players continues and, once again, I’m hopeful that some more good news is on the horizon.”
