James Penrice was sold on Hearts move by Steven Naismith transfer pitch

James Penrice insists he was immediately sold on a move to Hearts after holding talks with Steven Naismith.

The Livingston defender was today unveiled as the Jambos' first summer signing after penning a three-year contract. And despite having interest from clubs north and south of the border, it didn't take long to convince Penrice that his future would be best served at Tynecastle.

He told Hearts TV: "I thought (coming to Hearts) was the next, gradual step for me. I met the manager and the project that they had suited me to a tee, and it was the right place to develop. I’m just absolutely buzzing to be here.

“He spoke about my game, about the club, about how big the club is and the challenge the players have at the club. Everything he said, as soon I left the meeting I said ‘that’s the only place for me’. It was tied up pretty quickly and one of the worst kept secrets about!"

The 25-year-old will get his first taste of European football, with the Jambos guaranteed a place in the Conference League group stages if they fail to reach the Europa League. And Penrice can't wait to savour the famous Tynecastle atmosphere, this time as a home player.

He said: "I can’t wait for the European ties. Cannot wait. My passport’s looked out! That was a big factor for me as well, how well the club did last season. I played against the club a number of times last season and it was a very difficult place to come. I’d have loved to have been on the other side and that’s happened now.

"It’ll be good be getting cheered on instead of a little bit of abuse! It’s probably my favourite stadium in Scotland. It’s a fantastic place to play your football and I can’t wait to get going. I’m buzzing for the first game."