TOBY SIBBICK has returned to Hearts on a permanent deal.

The defender joins the Jambos on a three-and-a-half-year deal for an undisclosed fee from Barnsley. 

The 22-year-old spent time in Gorgie two years ago, as he spent part of the 2019/20 season on loan at Tynecastle under Daniel Stendel.

Manager Robbie Neilson said: “I’m delighted to get Toby in on a permanent deal.

“He’s someone we’ve been aware of for a while and he obviously has past links to the club. By all accounts he made a really good impression last time round and was unfortunate that bad luck stopped him from going on to show what he could do.

“We’re getting a talented and versatile player who’s had even more experience at a high level down south, so hopefully we can reap the benefits of that.”

Sporting Director Joe Savage said: “Feedback on Toby’s previous spell at the club is glowing but, more importantly, he’s continued to develop and progress as a player.

“We’ve brought him in because we feel he can help improve the team, which is important as we enter the second half of the season.

“There will be a few familiar faces in the dressing room which will be good for him, and I know the fans thought very highly of him so I’m sure they will be happy to see him pull on a Hearts shirt once again and, hopefully, pick up from where he left off.”