I'M CONNOR NAIL DOWN GORGIE SPOT

CONNOR SMITH insists it's time to take the next step at Hearts after signing a new deal at Tynecastle

- CRAIG SWAN

The 21-year-old has penned a one-year agreement with an option for a further 12 months.

Smith had a loan spell at Hamilton last term to aid his development and the youngster now feels he has to nail down his spot with the Jambos.

The midfielder said: "I'm buzzing. I'm delighted to get it signed.

"That's me been on five loans now and I feel like I've developed enough. My main focus this season will be playing for Hearts.

"As soon as I get a chance, I need to work at keeping my jersey and staying in the team for as long as I can.

"I obviously played a wee bit at the start of last season, which was great, but now I want to go a step further and play as many games as possible.

"It's tough to break into the first team because there's a lot of experienced professionals here.

"It feels weird because I'm not really one of the youngest here anymore.