James Penrice, born on 22nd December 1998 in Scotland, is an imposing Scottish defender who currently features as an exceptional left back for Hearts. Standing at 5ft 10in (1.78m), he tips the scales at 11st 6lb (73kg), and proudly dons the number 29 jersey.
According to Transfermarkt, his current market value hovers around the €1.00m mark, comfortably converting to £855,000. His existing contract with Hearts is set to carry on until the 31st of May, 2027.
Penrice began his professional football career with Partick Thistle in the Scottish Championship in July 2015. He made a modest league debut in the 2015-2016 season with two first-team appearances. His time on the pitch remained limited during his second season in 2017-2018 where he made an identical number of appearances.
In December 2016, the defender was loaned out to East Fife in the Scottish League Two, where he managed a commendable 18 first team appearances throughout the 2016-2017 season. However, he was promptly recalled by Partick Thistle at the end of his loan term in June 2017.
Only two months after his return, Penrice was once again loaned out to Livingston in the Scottish Championship in August 2017. He somewhat flourished at his temporary home, earning a notable 13 first team appearances and striking home one goal in his first season. His following spells were equally prolific with 26 appearances in 2021-2022, 29 appearances and three goals in 2022-2023, and 24 appearances in 2023-2024.
Following several prosperous stints, Penrice permanently transferred to Livingston in July 2021. He carried on his formidable form across four seasons, toasting similar success in both appearances and goal tally to his previous loan terms.
In a bid to challenge himself further, Penrice made a spirited move to Hearts in the Scottish Premiership in July 2024. Currently in the 2024-2025 season, he has already made a promising 23 first team appearances, chalking up two goals in the league. In addition, he has made major contributions in the League Cup, Scottish Cup, Europa League Qualifiers, and Conference League, making a combined total of ten starts and one appearance as a substitute.
