Hearts extend Liam Boyce's contract and hint at more new deals

Liam Boyce has extended his Hearts contract until 2025, with manager Steven Naismith saying the forward is an invaluable presence in the dressing room.

The 32-year-old has returned from serious injury to make enough appearances to trigger a contract extension and can now look forward to another 18 months with the Tynecastle side.

Boyce joined Hearts after leaving Burton Albion in 2020 and has gone on to play for the club 107 times, scoring 36 times.

Naismith said: “Boycie’s experience is invaluable inside the dressing room and we’re all delighted that he’s going to be here for a further year.

“I know from experience how difficult it is to return from a long-term injury but he has taken everything in his stride and you can see when he’s out on the pitch that it’s not affected him, he’s a quality player.

“Competition for places is fierce and having top talent like Boycie challenging for a spot only helps push standards even higher.”

Hearts’ sporting director Joe Savage expressed his delight and said he was working on other deals that he hoped to be able to conclude.

“Boycie’s contract extension is great news and a testament to his drive and determination,” Savage said.

“Our plan was always to give him the time he needed to come back feeling fit and then reintegrate him into the first team scene. There was never any pressure, it was about making sure Boycie had the best chance to get back to the level he’s capable of.

“I think everybody can see he’s achieved that. He’s an influential player on and off the pitch so for him to trigger his contract extension is pleasing for everyone.

“There’s been lots of positivity around the club recently thanks to the first team’s winning run, moving up to third in the league and also Steven and Lawrence Shankland’s awards. Boycie’s contract extension adds to it and we’re hopeful of sorting out a few more, so watch this space.”