Important Hearts star set to sign new contract soon

The experienced defender is into the final year of his deal at Tynecastle Park and an extension has been in the pipeline in recent months.

As first reported by the Evening News, contract talks have taken place and an announcement is expected to be made not before long with the player keen to prolong his stay at Hearts having first joined the club in 2020.

The 30-year-old has been a key player at the club across the past four years with his form at left-back and centre-back earning him a recall to the Scotland national team. He is closing in on 150 appearances and could reach the milestone next month.

Kingsley was one of the club's best performers last season, displaying his versatility by playing in a raft of defensive positions, from wing-back to full-back to centre-back. He was an unused substitute in the draw with Rangers having missed the majority of pre-season through a calf issue. He had, however, returned to training this past week.

Comment

It is a deal that is an absolute no-brainer. Kingsley has been a hugely consistent presence during his time at Hearts with last season being one of his best, refinding his form following a dip in the 2022/23 campaign.

He is the type of player that provides the squad with continuity and experience. Someone who knows what it takes to win games in Scottish football. While he is not a tradable asset in the way someone like Gerald Taylor could be or Kenneth Vargas is. But his role is just as important. He is a leader in the dressing room and a reference point. During periods where the squad changes someone like Kingsley can provide a steady presence, on and off the field.

Kinglsey could be the first of a few Hearts players to extend their stay at Tynecastle with a further 10 first-team players out of contract at the end of the season.