Hearts to release Denis Prychynenko after season

HEARTS will release midfielder Denis Prychynenko at the end of the season as manager Gary Locke continues reshaping his squad.

The 21-year-old has been told he is surplus to 
requirements after four years in Edinburgh. The German has managed eight senior 
appearances for Hearts but failed to establish himself as a regular. He started only one match at first-team level – against St Mirren in February this year in former manager John McGlynn’s last game in charge.

However, he leaves with a Scottish Cup winner’s medal, having been an unused substitute in last year’s historic all-Edinburgh final as Hearts beat Hibs 5-1.

Prychynenko initially joined Hearts in 2009 from Tennis Borussia Berlin and made an instant impression as a youth academy player. He earned a reputation as a free-kick specialist with the under-19s but injuries and some fierce competition for midfield places at senior level hindered his progress. He spent part of last season on loan at Raith Rovers.

Meanwhile, Hearts have announced their financial results for the year to June 2012, which include an increase in turnover but an overall loss of £1.65million. Most of that is due to the decision to include all of the £1.58m HMRC tax bill – 
payable over three years – in 
the one accounting period. Turnover increased from £6.92m to £8.68m, with the club’s overall debt now sitting at £24.7m.