Particularly when it became known that rivals Hibs were considering a pre-contract raid for Clark in order to acquire a new custodian for the upcoming campaign, this was the instance.

Although Hibees manager David Grey addressed the linkages, Tynecastle remained silent about them.

However, it was believed that the former St Johnstone player may go, either to Easter Road or another location, as a result of his discontent with his playing time.

He was therefore taken aback when the Jambos revealed a new two-year contract with him. Hearts supporters enthusiastically embraced it, declaring triumph against Hibs.

Although manager Neil Critchley has been told to make Clark his starting goalie for the upcoming campaign, he can now enjoy having two excellent goalies at his disposal.

Clark speaks on new Hearts deal

For the first time, Clark has got the opportunity to discuss his new deal.

He claims he got it signed within a week of being offered, and he maintains that there was no hesitation in signing despite the lack of playing and some remarks on social media.

His current objective is to rejoin the team.

He stated in the Hearts game schedule for the victory against Kilmarnock this past weekend: “I’m happy to finish it. I’m happy to have it finished, have some stability, and attempt to move forward from here. I talked about it for a long enough time, but when the contract was presented, it was finished in a week.

Being a part of Hearts is a huge club, and it’s been fantastic. This season has been fun, with European group stages and qualifying for Europe. As a result, it was evident that the club wished to extend my contract, despite what some social media users may have stated.

“Obviously, missing out on the team this season is difficult, but that’s just a part of goalkeeping. Given that only one of us is capable of playing the position, you must buckle down and put in your best effort to try to rejoin this team. You are clearly dedicated to my future, and the process of trying to rejoin it begins from the beginning.

Clark stays a positive influence

Clark has always made an effort to be a good role model for his teammates, even though he is not playing and is on the periphery.

He is aware of anything else that could be useful.

“If I’m not playing, I always try to be that,” he continued.

“It’s obvious that you’re dissatisfied, but wallowing and complaining is pointless. Nobody benefits from it. I’m not helped by it. The team isn’t helped by it. I always try to be positive about the place and attempt to keep spirits up, even if you’re disappointed on the inside.

“It’s natural to feel depressed after going through a difficult time early in the season. The games were coming fast and furious. It’s just my personality. I’ve always been like way because I like to try to keep everyone happy, but if I can help others, like I say, it doesn’t do any good if I’m sulking and complaining.

I believe you can talk to any goalie who isn’t playing in the world; they won’t be pleased about it, but you have to recognise that’s your job, so you just have to make sure you’re prepared to go when the time comes.

To reiterate, if you’re groping and complaining a little and that time comes and you’re not prepared, then the blame is on you. You must maintain your best possible attitude, mood, and level of application in whatever you do, and this is perhaps even more important when you’re not playing.

Since you’re the last in line and ten other boys are vying for your attention, you should be prepared for that moment, which you never know will arrive. Having that kind of belief, trust, and camaraderie among the group is essential. They will have faith in you to come in and perform your duties, and you will have faith in them to perform theirs.