Lewis Neilson signs for Saints

We are delighted to confirm the signing of defender Lewis Neilson on a season-long loan from Heart of Midlothian.

The 21-year-old, who came through the youth ranks at Dundee United, moves to McDiarmid Park for the campaign following a loan spell with Partick Thistle last season.

Versatile Neilson, who can also play in midfield, is exicited for the start of the Scottish Premiership season with Aberdeen the visitors to McDiarmid Park on Monday.

After penning his loan deal, he said: “After speaking to Hearts my next step was just to play as many games as I can and playing in the Scottish Premiership is huge.

“When St Johnstone wanted to take me it was a no brainer. It seems like a great group of boys so I am excited to get started.

“I have never worked under the manager but I have heard a lot of good things, I think the style of play is really going to help my game.

“I am sure this loan spell will help me and I hope I can help the club too.

“I am delighted to be in and get a full week of training before our league opener against Aberdeen. It is an exciting opening game.”

Manager Craig Levein added: “We are delighted to bring Lewis into the club for the season. He is an exciting defensive prospect and I am sure he will help us over the course of the campaign.

“It is great to bring Lewis in ahead of our opening league game against Aberdeen and I look forward to working with him going forward.”