Robbie Neilson has left his role as Hearts head coach to become the new manager of MK Dons.

The 36-year-old departs the Tynecastle club after two-and-a-half years in charge to join the English League One outfit.

Hearts players gathered at the club's training base to say farewell to their outgoing manager on Thursday morning with Jon Daly set to take the team for Saturday's trip to Ross County.

Stevie Crawford will join Neilson down at Stadium MK.

A statement read: "The club can confirm that we have agreed terms with Milton Keynes Dons FC in relation to Head Coach Robbie Neilson and Assistant Head Coach Stevie Crawford.

"Ann Budge, the Board of Directors and everyone at Heart of Midlothian Football Club would like to sincerely thank Robbie and Stevie for the enormous part they have played in helping to re-establish the club in the upper echelons of Scottish football.

"The record-breaking 2014-15 Championship-winning season, which secured our promotion back to the top flight at the first time of asking, will long live in the memory of Hearts supporters, as will the highly impressive third-place finish and the return to European football which was achieved the following season.

"They leave us in an enviable position, sitting second in the Premiership table with a healthy playing squad, rich with talent and promise. We wish them every success in their new challenge with Milton Keynes Dons FC.

"We will now begin the formal process of recruiting a new Head Coach and Assistant Head Coach.

"A further statement confirming interim arrangements for our game against Ross County on Saturday, will be released tomorrow morning."

Newcastle coach Ian Cathro has been heavily linked as Neilson's successor and the Jam Tarts are expected to make an approach to secure his services in the next 24 hours.

In his debut season, Neilson led Hearts to the Scottish Championship title ahead of Rangers and Hibernian with a record points total of 91.

European football was secured in their first season back in the top flight following a third place finish, with Wednesday's 2-0 win over Rangers leaving the Jam Tarts second in the Premiership table.

MK Dons are 19th in England's third tier with 21 points from 20 games.