Neilson Signs New Contract

Despite the many new signings recently made by the club, including a couple who can play right-back, Graham Rix obviously rates the 25 year-old highly enough for him to merit this deal.

Neilson is probably the most debated player at Tynecastle. Some fans can’t stand the sight of him in a Hearts jersey, while others appear to worship the ground he walks on…..it’s a strange phenomenon. There’s no doubt that Robbie has improved immeasurably as a player since becoming a first-team regular under Craig Levein, but I’ve always felt that when he’s faced with an opponent of genuine ability and/or pace, he tends to struggle. However three Hearts managers have stuck by him in recent times and the defensive record has been excellent in that time, so what do I know?! One thing’s for sure, the competition for places can only be of benefit to the team.

Meanwhile Saulius Mikoliunas has extended his loan deal from FBK Kaunas until the end of the season. Miko’s been disappointing recently and will find it very difficult to get a game with the arrival of all these new right wingers, but again this competition can only be a good thing – it could be the making of the lad.