Clare salutes Hearts support after sealing switch to Oxford United

SEAN Clare has paid tribute to Hearts and their fans after completing a move to Oxford.

The former Sheffield Wednesday player has signed a three-year contract with the Sky Bet League One club.

Clare made 71 appearances for Hearts after joining as a midfielder in October 2018, before enjoying an impressive run at right-back as Hearts struggled under Daniel Stendel last season.

The London-born player could be the first of several departures from the relegated club with Conor Washington linked with a move to Charlton and fullback Aaron Hickey reportedly interesting Bayern Munich among other clubs.

The 23-year-old Clare wrote on Twitter: “Firstly I’d like to say a massive thank you to Heart of Midlothian FC and Ann Budge for giving me the opportunity to play for such a massive club and gain so many priceless experiences that have improved me not only as a player but as a person.

“I’m disappointed the way the club was treated in the end especially with so much football to be played but I have no doubt with the players they have on board the club will be back where they belong in no time.”

Clare also thanked the players and staff for their “help and belief” in him.

“A huge thanks to the fans for not only their support for me but also the crazy support they have given to the club over the years but especially in this unprecedented situation with so many pledges and season tickets being bought,” he added.

“It shows the true heart of the club is the fans and that’s something no one can ever debate.”

Hearts have sold 9,500 season tickets with more than two months to go before their Championship campaign kicks off.

Midfielder Sean Clare has joined Oxford United.