Robbie Neilson "not ready" to leave Hearts

Robbie Neilson has reiterated his desire to remain as Hearts manager beyond the end of the current season, claiming that he is "really happy" at the club.

The 34-year-old has guided the Jambos to Scottish Championship promotion with seven games to spare following an impressive start to his managerial career at Tynecastle.

His success led to suggestions that another club could make an approach for his signature, with Hearts owner Ann Budge admitting that he "will be a target" for bigger clubs.

However, speaking to BBC Sport, Neilson said: "I'll be here next season. I'm not ready to make a step yet. I'm really happy where I am.

"I'm only in the job nine or 10 months, so I've still got a long way to go; a long way to take this team. I'm at a stable club; Ann [Budge] has been fantastic so it's a great place to be.

"It's a great opportunity to build over the summer and have a real crack at it next season and see where we are. We had a two-year plan to get up and we've managed to get there ahead of schedule. The players have developed quicker than we expected them to."

Hearts return to action on Saturday when they take on Queen of the South.