Robbie Neilson has signed a new contract with Hearts until the end of the 2017/18 season.

The Tynecastle head coach led the club to the Scottish Championship title in his debut season after replacing Gary Locke.

Hearts sit third in the Scottish Premiership table with 44 points from 25 games and face Kilmarnock at home on Saturday.

Assistant manager Stevie Crawford has also signed a fresh deal to remain in the capital.

Neilson said: "Stevie and I are very happy to have extended our contracts. We are both young coaches with a lot to learn, and while we’ve enjoyed some real success, we want to deliver more for the supporters."

Chairwoman Ann Budge told the club's website: "I am very pleased to have secured Robbie and Stevie’s services for the next two seasons, as we continue to build for the future.

"This is a win-win for everyone…the club, the players and the supporters. By continuing to pull together, I am confident we will all achieve our goals."

Director of football Craig Levein added: "We came in with a long term plan, we’re ahead of schedule and very happy with the progress our coaching team has made."