Gregor Crookston is the latest youngster to commit his future to Heart of Midlothian, signing a new deal until 2026.

The 18-year-old winger is set to play a more prominent part for the B team next season after gaining experience at the level this past campaign.

Crookston, who joined the club in January 2018, was a key member of David McNeil’s under-18 side and has been challenged by B team boss Liam Fox to force his way into his plans.

“Gregor has worked hard this season and despite an injury setback, he’s had a positive season," he told the club's website. "Firstly, he’s shown a good attitude to bounce back from that and while he’s featured more regularly for the 18s, he’s also had some exposure to the Lowland League, which will help him moving into the new season, which will be a big one for him.

“We have a lot of competition in those wide areas, so Gregor has to apply himself well in training to force his way into the side and then he has to perform on a consistent basis.”

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The new deal follows from the recent extension handed to centre-back Kenzie Nair. The 18-year-old was prominent for the B team but encountered injury issues during the campaign. He also signed a new two-year deal.

Announced at the end of the Lowland League season, Hearts gave new deals to left-back Bailey Dall and centre-back Kai Smutek.

Smutek, who became a B-team regular, signed a deal until 2026 with Fox noting "a big improvement" this past season. Dall penned a one-year deal with an option for a further year included.

“Next season will be a big one for both," the B team head coach said. "Competition for places will be really tough, but that is the environment we want to create, with players facing tough challenges every day. That is the only way they will improve as players.”

Harry Gordon, Callum Flatman and Murray Thomas have all departed the club following the expiry of their deals while Alexander Walker, Harvey Chisholm and Jamie Anderson left following the under-18 campaign.