Zander Clark insists new Hearts contract was a 'no-brainer' as he fires message at social media cynics

Zander Clark insists it was a no-brainer to sign his new deal at Hearts - even if some keyboard warriors suggested otherwise.

The goalkeeper ended speculation linking him with a move across the Edinburgh divide to Hibs by penning a new two-year deal at Tynecastle earlier this month. Some social media speculators had predicted the 32-year-old would jump at a move away from Gorgie after losing his spot in the starting XI to veteran skipper Craig Gordon this season. But Clark says he was only too happy to pledge his future to the maroon half of the city and double down on his efforts to grab the number one spot back.

He said: “I spoke about it for long enough, but when the contract got offered it was done and dusted within the week, so l'm pleased to get a bit of security and try and kick on from here. It's been brilliant at Hearts; it's a massive club. European group stages this season, qualifying for Europe, it's been an enjoyable time.

"So when the club wanted to extend my deal it was a no-brainer - although some on social media might have said otherwise. It's obviously frustrating not being in the squad this season but listen, that's part of goalkeeping. Only one of us can play the position, so you need to knuckle down and that's when you need to work your hardest to try and get back in this team. Obviously I’ve committed my future and it starts again in terms of trying to get back in."

It’s been a harsh few months for Clark who, on the back of keeping 16 clean sheets last season, helped Hearts to a third place finish and won four Scotland caps. He started this season with another clean sheet in the goalless draw against Rangers but lost his place after a 3-1 defeat at Dundee on matchday two.

Gordon’s form between