- EXCLUSIVE with Graeme Bailey
James Penrice has been a revelation since signing for Hearts on a free transfer from Livingston last year.
When the Jambos brought him in along with Yan Dhanda and Blair Spittal, the left-back was probably third on the list in terms of excitement generated amongst fans. Seen as a probable back-up to the more exotic signing of Colombia international Andres Salazar.
But he has been the pick of the bunch and not just that, he has been the club’s best and most consistent player this season. A clear frontrunner for Hearts‘ in-house player of the year award at the end of the season.
In fact, Penrice could even be a Premiership player of the year candidate, according to Jambos legend John Robertson who also mentioned Hibs’ Nicky Cadden for that accolade.
The Hearts left-back has also been tipped for Scotland recognition as manager Neil Critchley urged his star man to keep on pushing himself up a level.
Back in January, pundit Michael Stewart raved about the full-back’s displays this year and expected Penrice to be in the radar of “many, many” interested clubs.
And it would seem he was not far wrong.
- READ MORE: What Steven Naismith has said on Hearts successor Neil Critchley as he gives his thoughts
Southampton, Watford and Preston look at Penrice
Not the Old Firm understands Hearts are braced for summer bids for their defensive star Penrice.
The 26-year-old left-back has enjoyed a stand-out campaign for the Jambos since his move from Livingston.
His performances have caught the eye of a number of clubs and we can reveal that he could be on the move from Tynecastle less than 12-months after arriving.
We understand that Southampton, Watford and Preston North End have been watching Penrice closely in recent weeks and are looking at a prospective summer bid.
Hearts would likely be able to command a decent fee for a player brought in for nothing a year ago and with the use of Jamestown Analytics it would be hoped they could reinvest in someone just as good.
Hearts fans branded Penrice ‘best in the league’
After a performance against Celtic, despite his team losing, Hearts fans branded Penrice the best left back in the league.
Robertson said on Sky Sports: “Penrice has been magnificent so far. He’s been the best player on show.”
Martin O’Neill added: “We talked about the relationship that Kuhn and Johnston have on the right but Penrice has single-handedly dismantled that.
“He’s been absolutely terrific. He’s made great, great chances. Getting forward with a lot of confidence and doing really well.”
And his former Livi boss David Martindale had previously sung his praises.
During some chat about him starting well at Hearts, he said on Open Goal: “I knew he would. Great legs, technically very, very good, competes in the air, good in his 1v1 duels and doesn’t mind a tackle. He’s got all of those attributes.”