Kingsley signs up for an assault on Europe
STEPHEN KINGSLEY admits the prospect of playing in Europe for the first time was a massive factor in convincing him to sign a long-term deal with Hearts.
The 27-year-old has penned a new three-and-a-half-year contract that ties him to the Tynecastle club until 2025.
The former Falkirk and Swansea City defender joined the Jambos in October 2020 on an initial one-season agreement that was soon extended after he proved his previous injury issues were in the past.
The Scotland cap has since gone from strength to strength and has played a major role in the impressive start to the campaign made by the Gorgie men.
Robbie Neilson’s side sit clear in third going into the second half of the season and the rewards for staying in that position helped convince Kingsley to commit his future to the club.
He said: “The club and the gaffer stated that it was going to be a longer project, getting the club back to where it wants to be.
“And thankfully we’re kind of hitting those targets now. We’ve not accomplished them, obviously – we’re still halfway through the season – but we’re on our way to doing that.
“This is a project I’ve been aware of since I came into the club and I’m glad to be a part of it.
“The immediate future is the one we’re concentrating on just now. We’ve only completed half the job, we’ve not done anything yet.
“We’re in a good position and we need to make sure we’re carrying that on for the rest of the season.
“Hopefully we can finish as high up as we can and that can open doors to different things.
“Obviously European football is one and is really exciting. That was a big point that I wanted to stay for, and to try to experience that.
“I’ve not done that before, so it’s something that hopefully, if we can get there, I’ll be really looking forward to.”
Kingsley follows on quickly from the new contracts agreed by skipper Craig Gordon and fellow defender Craig Halkett.
He added: “It feels great. I’m glad to get it done. It’s been on the cards for a little while now, so it’s great to finally get it over the line.
“I’ve felt very comfortable and managed to put in some good performances so I’m glad to be staying here for another period.”
Meanwhile, Neilson is thrilled with another piece of astute business completed by the club.
The head coach said: “It’s fantastic to get Stephen committed to Hearts for another three seasons.
“He’s gone from strength to strength since he arrived here and he’s undoubtedly one of the country’s top defenders.”
It’s been on the cards for a little while, so it’s great to get it over the line