Kye pledges long-term future to Hearts

The Australian has been a standout in defence since his summer move from A-League side Central Coast Mariners and put in a string of sensational performances for the Socceroos at the World Cup, despite missing two months of the season through injury.

Kye’s return to the Jam Tarts’ defence has coincided with a seven-match unbeaten run. Such has been the 24-year-old’s impact, the boys in maroon have lost only twice in the 13 domestic games in which he has featured.

With his stock high, manager Robbie Neilson and sporting director Joe Savage moved quickly to secure his services for years to come and Kye was only too happy to put pen to paper, a decision that has left all parties delighted.

Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, Robbie said: “It’s fantastic news that Kye has signed a long-term deal with the club.

“He’s made a big impact in a very short space of time, so to know that he’s going to be here – improving day by day – for years to come is massive for us.

“He’s proved his quality in a Hearts shirt week in, week out and also on the biggest stage of them all at the World Cup, so to have that kind of talent at the club is huge.

“I know Kye wants to be here to better himself and that’s our goal; to make him and the team the best it can be.”

Echoing the manager’s comments, Joe said: “People’s focus may be on ins and outs during the transfer window but just as important for us is keeping our best players here, and today we’ve managed to do that.

“There was, understandably, interest in Kye after his showing at the World Cup but our intention was always to retain him and talks were very straightforward.

“He’s appreciative of what he’s got here at Hearts and, crucially, what he could have as we look to progress this club even further forward.”