Elvis has left the building

Hearts have confirmed that former captain Steven Pressley has left the SPL club.

After weeks of speculation regarding his position at Hearts, Pressley has now departed on a free transfer after reaching what the club describe as an 'amicable agreement' between the two parties.

The Scottish international first saw his future with the Edinburgh side plunged into doubt back in October when he issued a statement describing 'significant unrest' within the dressing room.

Reports proliferated of a players' plot to oust Pressley, and after making just two further appearances the influential defender has now ended his eight-year stay at the club.

Head coach Valdas Ivanauskas confirmed Pressley's exit as he wished the player well ahead of what could be a busy January transfer window for the former Dundee United man.

"It has been a difficult few weeks for both the club and Steven," Ivanauskas told the club's official website.

"We recognise the tremendous contribution that Steven has made both as a player and as captain at Tynecastle over the years and we wish him all the best for the future."

Pressley also expressed his sadness at ending his time with the capital club, thanking the fans for their support during his stay at Hearts.

"I have enjoyed my time at Tynecastle enormously and will be sad to leave the club," said Pressley.

"Particularly I would like to thank the fans for their support during my time at the club.

"I wish the club, the management and my fellow players, the coaches and the fans every success in the future."