James Penrice, born 22nd December 1998 and now aged 26, is a Scottish-born defender with a reputation for solid play at left-back. Currently bearing the number 29 jersey for Heart of Midlothian Football Club (Hearts), Penrice stands 5ft 10in (1.78m) tall and is a considerable presence on the pitch at 11st 6lb (73kg). His current market value is estimated around £1.05m according to Transfermarkt, with his contract at Hearts due to expire on 31st May 2027.
Beginning his career at Partick Thistle in the Championship in Scotland in July 2015, Penrice made two first-team appearances in his debut season. A loan to East Fife in Scotland's League Two in December 2016 saw him make 18 first team appearances and grow in experience. Following the completion of his loan, he returned to Partick Thistle where he made another two first team appearances in the subsequent 2017 - 2018 season.
August 2017 marked a new chapter in Penrice's career as he moved on loan to Livingston in the Championship for the 2017 - 2018 season. His time at Livingston was successful. Over multiple seasons, he made a total of 92 first-team league appearances and bagged himself 4 goals.
A spell back at Partick Thistle followed in early 2018. He made a permanent move to Livingston in July 2021 where he continued his consistency on the pitch, with further league appearances and three goals to his name. Attracting attention from the Premiership, Penrice secured a move to Hearts in July 2024.
In his current 2024 - 2025 season at Hearts, Penrice has so far made 33 lightening appearances and scored two goals in league matches. Furthermore, his skills have been vital in various cups, partaking in the League Cup, Scottish Cup, Europa League Qualifiers, and Conference League for Hearts.
Penrice's career demonstrates marked growth and a keen ability to adapt to different playing fields. A testament to the perseverance and grit of Scottish football, his time in football continues to be a stirring journey.
