Four exit Hearts as Levein begins preparations for new season

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Hearts have confirmed the departure of four first-team players as manager Craig Levein starts work on preparing his side for the new season.

Aaron Hughes and Connor Sammon have both left after their contracts ended while Demi Mitchell and Conor Shaughnessy have returned to their parent clubs at the expiry of their loans.

Hughes, Northern Ireland’s most capped outfield player, joined the Jambos in 2017 on a short-term deal but signe a number of extensions to his deal while Sammon was a flop who scored twice in 27 appearances.

Full-back Mitchell impressed but saw his season ruined by injury as he looked to show what he could do in a second Tynecastle stint.

After the disappointment of the Scottish Cup final defeat by Celtic, attention has now turned to the new season and Levein will be looking to add to his squad as quickly as possible.

The Jambos need to add at least three or four first-team players if they are to build on this season and push for a Europa League place.

The losses will be felt by the Jambos unless Levein brings in quality replacements ahead of the new season and the Hearts boss needs to move quickly before his side returns for pre-season.