HEARTS HANDED DEFENDER BOOST

The 27-year-old former Rangers defender had one year left to run on his of his existing deal, but has decided the time is right to pledge his long-term future to The Jambos.

Hearts boss Craig Levein is trying to strengthen his squad, but the news that Pressley will be staying at Tyncastle is a massive boost for him.

"There are important positions in the team and in those positions you want players you can rely on 100 per cent. That's where Steven comes in," said Levein.

Pressley said that he decided to stay with the Edinburgh club because he still believes that he can claim some silverware with Levein's side.

"When I joined the club three years ago I said I had joined the club to win trophies," said Pressley. "I certainly hope to do that in my remaining four years here."

Meanwhile, Hearts have signed Toulouse defender Jacques-Olivier Paviot on a two-month deal.

Levein has been impressed with the Frenchman's performances and has given him time to prove his fitness.

If Paviot does so, he could well earn a longer stay in the Scottish Premier League.