Robbie Neilson pays tribute to John Souttar for 'outstanding' service to Hearts as defender leaves for Rangers

The centre-back put in a towering performance against his future employers in the Scottish Cup final defeat despite a severe lack of match practice after a recent ankle operation.

It was his first start in a maroon jersey for two and a half months, but it didn’t show in a performance which underlined just how difficult he will be to replace.

Souttar was 19 when Craig Levein signed him from Dundee United in January 2016 and has battled back from three separate Achilles injuries during his time at Tynecastle to earn a place in the Scotland squad and a move to Ibrox.

Neilson paid tribute to the 25-year-old in the Hampden dressing room in front of the squad after his last match in maroon but knows replacing him will be tough.

He told the Evening News: “John is a top player and we’re disappointed to lose him, but we wish him all the best because during his time here, from day one, since signing from Dundee United, he has been outstanding.

“He’s been hindered by a number of injuries, but he’s always fought back and given everything for the club. We wish him well in the future.”

Captain Craig Gordon described Souttar as “inspiration and a great role model” to everyone at the club and will join up with the defender on Scotland duty in the coming weeks.

After a short summer break, Souttar will return for pre-season as a Rangers player after signing a pre-contract in January.