Hearts defender Liam Smith signs new contract
Teenage Hearts defender Liam Smith has signed a contract extension until 2018. Captain of the club's under-20 side, Smith is seen as the natural successor to Callum Paterson at right-back and is expected to have a bright future at Tynecastle.
He has had to be patient so far with Paterson firmly regarded as first-choice on the right side of defence. Smith has played three times at first-team level this season and management are delighted he will be staying on for the next two and a half years at least.
“I’m delighted to get Liam tied up with a new deal,” said Robbie Neilson, the Hearts head coach. “He’s a highly rated player and has a big future here, as long as he continues to work hard. He’s had a taste of first-team action this season so he knows the standard he has to work towards.”
Smith spent time on loan at East Fife during season 2014/15, making 25 appearances in League Two.