SHATTERED Ryan Stevenson dramatically walked out on Hearts last night — and has told the club he is no longer willing to play for them.
The Jambos star dropped the bombshell news on boss Paulo Sergio yesterday as the squad's wages war with owner Vladimir Romanov claimed its first high-profile victim.
SunSport can reveal that Stevo, who has six months left on his contract, has effectively withdrawn his services and no longer wishes to be considered for selection.
The player's morale has hit rock bottom as he cares for pregnant wife Hannah, who is expecting their first child, while being given no indication when he will next be paid.
And he is now hoping to agree some kind of severance deal with Tynecastle officials that will allow him to find another employer.
The 27-year-old became Jim Jefferies' first signing on his return to the club in January 2010 and became an instant hit with the Hearts support.
That saw him extend his deal by another 12 months in the summer, and Stevenson has gone on to become a regular under Sergio.
Now, though, he has become so disillusioned by events at Tynecastle that he believes his controversial decision is the only answer.
The player made high-ranking club officials aware of his feelings yesterday as well as boss Sergio and is not expected to attend training at Riccarton today.
And SunSport understands Stevenson's refusal to play will stand even if Romanov insists the player sees out the final months of his deal.
It now appears a January compromise, which would at least see Hearts earn some money for the player, is in the best interests of both parties.
But his move, which comes just 24 hours after Eggert Jonsson left for Wolves and two days after Andrew Driver handed in a transfer request, is sure to shock Hearts fans.
And it is also sure to put a number a number of clubs on alert with Bristol City boss Derek McInnes a confirmed admirer.
Meanwhile, Jonsson admits he couldn't wait to join up with former Hearts team-mate Christophe Berra. He said: "As soon as I knew of Wolves' interest I was really excited.
"I've been in Scotland for a long time and feel ready to take the next step. Wolves is a great club for me to do that."
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