HEARTS defender Clevid Dikamona has published a statement on social media, clarifying his position with the Gorgie club "before someone else distorts reality".

Reports earlier this week suggested that the 29-year-old Frenchman was considering options elsewhere after all players and staff were offered a 50 percent pay cut - or the option to mutually terminate their contracts.

Dikamona has decided to take the club up on their offer and has ripped up his deal - but he hopes to return to the capital once normal service resumes.

With the defender's current contract set to expire at the end of May, Dikamona took to Twitter to explain that he has only done so to be with his family in France, and to ease the financial burden on the club.

"It's been a few days, soon weeks since it was madness with this virus and the uncertainty that accompanies it," he wrote.

"As you know the club, as all clubs, are going through a complicated time. The owner Ann Budge asked all the employees of the club to reduce their salary by 50 per cent in order to help the club cope with this situation.

"I have simply agreed to help the club by adhering to the requests of the owner.

"And as I have indicated, I am also ready to re-sign a contract with the club as soon as the situation will be clear and especially if the club wishes to make me a contractual proposal. Because as everyone knows, I am attached to this club and Hearts will obviously be my priority for next season.

"The end of my contract comes now rather than in May simply to allow me to return to France now with my family and that in good condition, and not in the will to flee my responsibilities with the club or to anticipate a transfer window, which from my point of view will be a real challenge for everyone when the situation is clear.

"All that to say in the present moment I have not anticipated anything.

"My main concern is the wellbeing of my family and to help the club. I wish you all health and see you soon."