Heart of Midlothian have confirmed the signing of Dexter Lembikisa on a season-long loan from Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers, subject to Scottish FA approval and international clearance.
The 20-year-old right-back spent the first half of the season with Rotherham United in the English Championship where he made 27 appearances. It followed four appearances for his parent club, including two starts against Liverpool. The Jamaican defender also has 14 caps for his country.
He will wear the number 81.
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“It feels good to be here," he told HeartsTV. "Hearts are a massive club and they’re doing very well at the moment. Sitting third in the table at the moment, so it’s definitely attractive to come and play here for such a good team.
“I like being in 1 v 1’s. I’m a strong defender in those situations, but I also like to attack. I’m quite athletic and I’ve got plenty of pace and power."
He added: “I’m ready to go and play now. So, I’m definitely looking forward to that one."
Hearts came into the January transfer window with right-back as their priority with Nathaniel Atkinson at the Asian Cup and Odel Offiah returning to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Head coach Steven Naismith told Hearts official site of his delight at getting the player "in so early in the window".
“He’s an exciting full back who likes to get involved in team attacks and he shows defensive traits ahead of his years," he said.
“His progression over the past year has been massive. He’s played the first half of this season at a high level down south and he’s also become a regular on the international scene for Jamaica.
“Dexter’s career is on an upward trajectory and we’re confident he can come to Hearts and make an impact over the next five months.”
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Hearts had been working on the signing of a right-back ahead of the window opening.
“We identified early on the need to bring in a right-back, given Natty Atkinson’s potential and subsequent inclusion in Australia’s Asian Cup squad," sporting director Joe Savage said.
“Our head of recruitment, Will Lancefield, and his team have worked tirelessly to source the best available targets for Steven, and we’re absolutely delighted to be able to bring in his number one choice in Dexter.
“A big thanks goes to Will and his team, and also to Steve Davis, Matt Jackson and Matt Hobbs at Wolves for making this a seamless process.
“To be able to attract another international standard player to Hearts is a big thing for the club and we’re all eager to see Dexter take to the pitch at Tynecastle Park.”
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