Michael Smith becomes latest Hearts player to sign new deal

Hearts have announced that Michael Smith has signed a new contract with the club, making him the latest player to commit his future to Robbie Neilson’s team.

Smith’s new deal ties him to Hearts until the summer of 2023 and sees him follow Craig Gordon, Craig Halkett and Stephen Kingsley in signing a new contract this month.

The Northern Ireland international has made 158 appearances since signing in 2017 and has scored seven goals.

Hearts boss Robbie Neilson welcomed the move, saying: ““I’m really pleased that we’ve got Michael tied down for another season.

“He’s a top player, an international-standard defender and his versatility makes him a tremendous asset for us.

“I know he’ll help drive us on to our goal of challenging at the top end of the league and for European football.”

Sporting director Joe Savage said: “Michael’s one of the longest-serving players in the squad for a reason; he’s a really talented and versatile player and a model professional.

“Those are the types of guys you want in your team and it made absolute sense for all parties to extend his contract by another year.

“The fans have really taken to him over the past five years and for any young player coming through our youth system, Michael is someone they should look up to.”