Double swoop for Hearts as John Sutton and Jamie Hamill sign up

Jefferies is confident that 24-year-old midfielder Hamill, who was a free agent, will be a success in Gorgie having coached the player during his time at the helm of Killie.

"Jamie is a player I know very well and I'm confident he'll be a good addition to the squad," Jefferies said.

"I'm delighted to have brought him here and he will add competition for places which is good for any team."

In signing for Hearts, Hamill ended a seven-year stint at Killie but is looking forward to the challenge of European football at Tynecastle next season.

"There was a lot of interest from other clubs but as soon as I heard of Hearts' interest, I wanted to speak to them as soon as possible," he said.

"It's a massive club and Jim Jefferies gave me my chance at Kilmarnock. Billy Brown and Gary Locke are obviously people I know very well, too, so I am delighted to be joining a club of this stature.

"An added factor in my decision was European football and I'm looking forward to it. This is going to be the biggest challenge of my career."

Sutton, 27, who left the Steelmen on a free transfer, said: "Hearts is a big club and hopefully I can bring some silverware to Tynecastle."