Hearts defender Bobby Burns has joined Newcastle Jets on loan.

Burns, 19, has turned out for Craig Levein's side just once this season so far against Cowdenbeath in their ill-fated Betfred Cup competition.

The Edinburgh outfit have been plagued with injuries this campaign but Levein sanctioned the season-long deal to allow Burns to head to A-League in Australia.

It leaves youngster Aaron Hickey as Hearts' only real left-back with Aidy White and Ben Garuccio both on the sidelines.

Burns, though, was pleased to make the short-term switch.

He told Newcastle Jets' official website: "Iā€™ve played all of my football in the United Kingdom so far, and to come out to Australia is a fantastic opportunity.

"To have the chance to push for consistent senior football at my age is an exciting one, but I know Iā€™ll have to work hard to earn my spot.

"I have ambitions to kick on from U/21 duties and play in the senior Northern Ireland team, and I believe playing for Newcastle will help me do that."