Alex Cochrane explains how Davie Weir cleared Hearts transfer path for permanent Tynecastle return

Alex Cochrane has revealed how Davie Weir helped pave the way for a permanent transfer to Hearts, writes our main Ross Pilcher in Spain.

The former Brighton man has returned to Tynecastle on a three-year deal after spending last season on loan in Gorgie. Hearts hero Weir was responsible for overseeing the south coast club’s loans last summer when Cochrane became Robbie Neilson ’s first addition of the transfer window. He’s since been promoted to technical director following Dan Ashworth’s departure to newly-minted Newcastle.

Cochrane was obligated to sign a one-year extension with the Seagulls, but Weir reassured him that they wouldn’t stand in his way should an offer come in. The Jambos showed their commitment by stumping up a fee in order to land the 22-year-old, and he is grateful to Weir for his help and guidance in first of all getting him to Hearts in the first place, then allowing him to come back for a second, longer-term stint.

"I spoke to Brighton at the back end of the season,” said Cochrane. “There was a contract I had to sign, but I spoke to David Weir and he said if the right move comes along, I could leave. I'm thankful for what they've done for me over the last couple of years and I wish them all the best.

“It definitely made it a lot easier, knowing the city and knowing the league. Maybe if I didn't have the loan and that experience, I could have potentially gone elsewhere. But last year was great and I'm happy to be back here.

"Last season. David Weir steered me towards Hearts. He told me what the football would be like, what the club was like and that made my mind up to come here last season. After being here for a season, I knew what it was all about.

"He just wished me all the best and asked me