Livingston manager Gary Holt has admitted that Craig Halkett’s impending move to Hearts is a “great step” in the defender’s career.

The former Rangers kid will move to Tynecastle this summer after making a name for himself with Livi and Holt called the move a “happy ending” for the 23-year-old.

16th February 2019, Tony Macaroni Arena, Livingston, Scotland; Ladbrokes Premiership football, Livingston versus Dundee; Craig Halkett of Livingston challenges for the ball with Andy Dales of Dundee

(photo by David Young/Action Plus via Getty Images)

After several years making his way through the leagues with Livi, Holt insists there’s no bitterness towards Halkett for “wanting out.”

“It’s the right time for Craig and it’s a great step in his career,” Holt told BBC Scotland.

“You’re allowed a happy ending in football – it doesn’t have to be bitter or that someone wants out.

LIVINGSTON, SCOTLAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Craig Halkett and Keaghan Jacobs of Livingston FC celebrate victory following the Ladbrokes Premiership match between Livingston and Rangers at Almondvale Stadium on September 30, 2018 in Livingston, Scotland.

(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“We spoke to him a couple of months ago when it was all going about and we advised that it would be a good career move for him.”

Halkett signed a three-year deal with Hearts and helped Livi secure their Premiership status for next season with a 2-0 win over Hamilton last night.

LIVINGSTON, SCOTLAND - JANUARY 27: Alfredo Morelos of Rangers vies with Craig Halkett of Livingston during the Ladbrokes Premiership match between Livingston and Rangers at Tony Macaroni Arena on January 27, 2019 in Livingston, United Kingdom. Hearts

(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

During his time at the Tony Macaroni Arena, Halkett has made over 1oo appearances and was appointed skipper in 2017.

The defender’s form for Livi this season has led to calls for him to be drafted into Alex McLeish’s Scotland squad and a move to Tynecastle could boost his international prospects.

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