Christophe Berra had already deputised as captain

The 22-year-old defender had been deputy to goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who was sold this week to Sunderland.

Hearts assistant manager Stephen Frail said: "It should be a natural progression for him to step up and take on the armband.

"I am sure that he wants it and he is desperate for it. I am sure he will relish it because he is young."

Berra has now made 80 appearances for the club since graduating from Hearts' youth team but only became a first-team regular last season.

However, Frail had no doubts of Berra's influence, despite his youth.

I think it will make a lot of my family, including my mum and dad, very proud Christophe Berra

"They already look to him for guidance and inspiration," he said.

"I think he has that in his make-up and will be a great captain for Hearts."

Being Hearts captain came sharply into focus at the start of last season, when Steven Pressley revealed dressing-room dissent flanked by Gordon and Paul Hartley.

Pressley and Hartley have since left for Celtic, while Gordon has now headed for the Premier League in England.

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But Berra felt he could cope with the spotlight.

"We all know the last couple of seasons there has been a lot of media coverage," he said.

"Little things have become massive things, but I think I am a wise guy with sensible shoulders.

"I think it will make a lot of my family, including my mum and dad, very proud. I am a local lad and a Hearts fan."