Prince Buaben signs new deal with Hearts

PRINCE BUABEN has signed a three-year contract extension with Hearts - a deal that will keep him at Tynecastle until 2018.

Buaben's deal ties him to Hearts until 2018. Picture: Ian Georgeson

The 26-year old joined the club this summer after impressing on trial, and his form this campaign has helped Robbie Neilson’s side build up a nine point lead at the top of the Scottish Championship table.

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His initial contract was only for 12 months and Hearts have been in discussions with the player in recent weeks as they sought to convince the Ghanian his long term future belonged in Gorgie.

Buaben told the Hearts website: “I’m very pleased to get the deal done. The main thing for me was to have both Robbie [Neilson] and Craig [Levein] telling me that they wanted me to be here, and to get the security of a longer deal is great as well.

“I always wanted to stay here. The football suits me as we play a good passing game. I’m very good friends with Morgaro [Gomis] and we have a really good bunch of talented and professional boys here.

“The fans have been amazing and to have their support means so much. Hopefully they can keep it up and I can score some more goals.”

Buaben has formed a formidable partnership in the middle of the park with ex-Dundee United teammate Gomis. The pair are well matched with Gomis dictating play in front of the back four and Buaben getting forward to support the front players.

Speaking of his pleasure at the deal, manager Robbie Neilson said: “I’m delighted to get Prince tied up here.

“He’s a top player and has been huge for us, a real integral part of the season. The pleasing thing is there’s a lot more to come from him.

“We could’ve lost him in January but wants to stay and that’s great. Prince signing a long-term deal is as important as bringing in new players. It’s important that we get our stars tied up on deals and happy.

“Prince has a great attitude and well-respected by his team-mates, and is a great player for the young boys to look up to.”

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