Steven Naismith pleased to add 'exciting player' as Yan Dhanda completes Hearts move

Hearts head coach Steven Naismith has hailed the arrival of midfielder Yan Dhanda as “another statement” as he builds his squad for next season.

Dhanda has made the move after his Ross County contract expired and will now work to help Hearts as they look to build on last season’s third-place finish, as well as make an impact in Europe.

The 25-year-old is a product of Liverpool’s academy and had a spell at Swansea City before catching the eye as a stand-out performer at County over two seasons.

Naismith believes Hearts have added an exciting talent who can improve even more during his time in Edinburgh.

“It’s more really positive news to get Yan in the door and announced,” the Hearts boss said.

“I think it’s clear to see that he’s one of the most exciting players in the league, and it’s another statement on our part as we look to add the best and brightest to our ranks ahead of a big season for the club.

“If you look back at his career, he dealt with the pressure of being a top prospect in a big club’s academy at Liverpool and decided he didn’t want to just be comfortable by being associated with a big club, he wanted to go out and play and progress his career.

“He did that at Swansea City and Ross County, and now he’s getting his rewards for all of his hard work over the past few years by coming to Hearts.

“Yan’s at a great age and stage in his career, and I’m very excited to add a player of his quality to the team, with scope to progress even further and I know he’ll settle in well to the squad.

“That takes us to six signings so far this summer and it was really important for us to get our business done early. The squad is really beginning to take shape ahead of what is going to be a massive season, domestically and in Europe, and we’re all looking forward to it.”