We need to talk about Lee

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

We were promised a high press, winning the ball back in opposition half - how many times have we managed it and its let to goals or even top chances?

You should surely look to sign players that can do that then?

We were told LJ has final sign off on targets. Well what's the point if its not in the areas or category we require? We've got some outlay on ayers that haven't had a sniff of first team football. And it shows

[B.H.F.C]

Yet he’s still picking them so has to take responsibility. He’s already dispensed with Kenneh who I thought was worth sticking with and never gives Tait a sniff.

Him picking that midfield three is worrying. He did it once, at Falkirk, and that was a mistake. To do it again is incompetence.

Any combination of the midfielders available would be an improvement on that three playing together. Our lack of attention to that part of the pitch is as disgraceful as giving them all new deals.

[jeffers]

Him picking that midfield three is worrying. He did it once, at Falkirk, and that was a mistake. To do it again is incompetence.

Any combination of the midfielders available would be an improvement on that three playing together. Our lack of attention to that part of the pitch is as disgraceful as giving them all new deals.

When I see those three in the starting lineup I genuinely wonder what makes fans like Johnson/think given time he’ll come good. Admittedly I was one who never wanted him, but nothing I’m seeing is giving me any confidence he’s been a good appointment.

[Paulie Walnuts]

When I see those three in the starting lineup I genuinely wonder what makes fans like Johnson/think given time he’ll come good. Admittedly I was one who never wanted him, but nothing I’m seeing is giving me any confidence he’s been a good appointment.

So far he’s shown nothing to suggest he’s a good appointment. If anything, he’s proven himself as a poor appointment so far.

[jeffers]

So far he’s shown nothing to suggest he’s a good appointment. If anything, he’s proven himself as a poor appointment so far.

Certainly looking that way so far. I didn’t expect the team to get a good reception at the end of the game yesterday, but I was genuinely surprised at the stick Johnson was getting. Never a good sign when fans turn on a manager.

[B.H.F.C]

When I see those three in the starting lineup I genuinely wonder what makes fans like Johnson/think given time he’ll come good. Admittedly I was one who never wanted him, but nothing I’m seeing is giving me any confidence he’s been a good appointment.

Agree. Quite like a lot of what he says. I liked what he did last week when it wasn’t working. Picking that team yesterday was a huge red flag for me though and, overall, he’s now had a pretty shocking start.

[jeffers]

Agree. Quite like a lot of what he says. I liked what he did last week when it wasn’t working. Picking that team yesterday was a huge red flag for me though and, overall, he’s now had a pretty shocking start.

After the time they took to identify and appoint him I wonder if the board are going to fully back him with (more) funds before this window shuts. If they don’t I can’t see him making the January window.

[matty_f]

We were promised a high press, winning the ball back in opposition half - how many times have we managed it and its let to goals or even top chances?

You should surely look to sign players that can do that then?

We were told LJ has final sign off on targets. Well what's the point if its not in the areas or category we require? We've got some outlay on ayers that haven't had a sniff of first team football. And it shows

You can’t play a high press against the majority of teams in this league because they are not interested in a slow, patient build up. You can play it against us, because we seem determined to do everything slowly and patiently.


In fact, we’re at a serious disadvantage in this league because we’re the only team that doesn’t get to play us.

[WhileTheChief..]

In fact, we’re at a serious disadvantage in this league because we’re the only team that doesn’t get to play us.

:top marksBrilliant!!!

[B.H.F.C]

After the time they took to identify and appoint him I wonder if the board are going to fully back him with (more) funds before this window shuts. If they don’t I can’t see him making the January window.

Going by some of his comments he’s clearly frustrated. Something hasn’t materialised or played out the way he expected or something along those lines.

He needs to do better with what he has but a frustrated manager isn’t a good thing.

[jeffers]

Going by some of his comments he’s clearly frustrated. Something hasn’t materialised or played out the way he expected or something along those lines.

He needs to do better with what he has but a frustrated manager isn’t a good thing.

Agreed. He’s come out and said he expected some players to have moved on by now, can only assume Doidge being one. However I don’t then understand why he’s continually picking a player if he wants him out the club. Are the others fringe players who probably aren’t on much or ones we are currently starting I wonder ?

[Mutu]

We have to stick with him. I don't see what the other options are. This core group of players have let down a number of managers now so the root cause to our problems are clear. We're going to have to be patient and be realistic as to where we are as a club.

LJ is dealing with seasons and seasons of horrible recruitment. How Doidge, Hanlon, Stevenson and that midfield three together are still getting routine games is really poor from our point of view.

Having said that I am overall been happy with the recruitment. I think players like Kenneh, Jair, Youan etc are the kind of signings we need to be making. The problem is we've not been able to bring in anyone experienced to play CB and CM. Think we would be looking at a different team if that had been the case.

[hibee-boys]

I feel sorry for LJ. He’s inherited a squad with players on long term deals who pretty much have failed the last 2 managers, why should he/we be surprised that they could perform any different under him. Until we’re able to get rid of Newell, JDH, Campbell, Hanlon, Doidge and Henderson and replace them with players who can consistently perform at this level we’re screwed. I think they’re all tied up until 2024 and I can’t see any clubs taking them off our hands.

[B.H.F.C]

I feel sorry for LJ. He’s inherited a squad with players on long term deals who pretty much have failed the last 2 managers, why should he/we be surprised that they could perform any different under him. Until we’re able to get rid of Newell, JDH, Campbell, Hanlon, Doidge and Henderson and replace them with players who can consistently perform at this level we’re screwed. I think they’re all tied up until 2024 and I can’t see any clubs taking them off our hands.

Said all summer that the players we do have are as big a problem as the ones we don’t have. Playing the same pish will result in us watching the same pish.

That said, we’ve signed about a dozen players. It’s just that none of them actually address the issues we have.

[jeffers]

I have very little sympathy for a manager who picked the terrrible trio against Falkirk then did so again yesterday.

[GreenGray]

The majority of the group that started yesterday have saw off two managers in the last year, failed to to anything special for a club legend who stepped in and will likely see off another manager soon, they’re simply not good enough.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mutu]

I have very little sympathy for a manager who picked the terrrible trio against Falkirk then did so again yesterday.

Think we need to kill this argument to be honest - LJ can't just magic up another central midfielder out of thin air. We have limited options.

The squad is the squad.

[jeffers]

Think we need to kill this argument to be honest - LJ can't just magic up another central midfielder out of thin air. We have limited options.

The squad is the squad.

So Kenneh and Tait aren’t central midfielders ?

[BoomtownHibees]

Think we need to kill this argument to be honest - LJ can't just magic up another central midfielder out of thin air. We have limited options.

The squad is the squad.

Kenneh, Tait, Henderson, Stevenson would all be better midfield options than the 3 chosen yesterday

[Mutu]

So Kenneh and Tait aren’t central midfielders ?

It's highly debatable if Kenneh is better than either Newell, JDH or Campbell. See Livi where he cost us points.

The point is that there is no clear player who should absolutely be playing every game over the three that started yesterday.

[BoomtownHibees]

It's highly debatable if Kenneh is better than either Newell, JDH or Campbell. See Livi where he cost us points.

Cost us points? That’s a bit of a stretch

[jeffers]

It's highly debatable if Kenneh is better than either Newell, JDH or Campbell. See Livi where he cost us points.

The point is that there is no clear player who should absolutely be playing every game over the three that started yesterday.

Kenneh or Tait don’t need be better, but they are different. We’ve all seen enough of the other three to know they do not work together.

[Dmas]

It's highly debatable if Kenneh is better than either Newell, JDH or Campbell. See Livi where he cost us points.

The point is that there is no clear player who should absolutely be playing every game over the three that started yesterday.

There’s an opportunity to find a balance though surely, the 3 that played yesterday and came up for so much grief last year don’t defend well and don’t play forward well…as a unit. If you add Kenneh he’ll offer cover to back 4 that’s missing with the others, I personally think it’s time we moved cadden in there as well drive us on box to box and use miller at RB the 3rd spot is up for grabs between what we have now or if we can add something else before the window closes

[James70]

Never mind the SAS, Red Arrows and snipers giving talks, we need a bunch of trick cyclists and counsellors to work out what is going on in their heads.

[500miles]

I don't think the players have any idea what they're supposed to be doing or what the manager wants from them. Boyle and Cadden don't have a clue, Cabraja is hesitant to push forward and Youan can't get into games until the second half when we clearly go in at half time, tear up the plan and simplify.

I wouldn't be surprised if senior players have communicated this to the coaching staff already and relationships will be turning sour.

David Gray will be in charge again before Chrismas.

The manager not travelling on the team bus is odd as well.

[One Day Soon]

I have very little sympathy for a manager who picked the terrrible trio against Falkirk then did so again yesterday.


I have none. His job is to get better out of what we had or to sign better.

If he's failing on the first he's not good enough. If he's failing on the second he's not good enough. If he was lied to about who he could sign and/or about who would make the decisions on signings and he's still putting up with that then he's not good enough.

It's very early on (although they've ****ed up one of two trophy possibilities amateurishly badly and had an utterly **** league start) so he could still turn things around. If he doesn't then its on him, the players and the club's broader management. Right now, it's on all of them.

[GreenGray]

I have none. His job is to get better out of what we had or to sign better.

If he's failing on the first he's not good enough. If he's failing on the second he's not good enough. If he was lied to about who he could sign and/or about who would make the decisions on signings and he's still putting up with that then he's not good enough.

It's very early on (although they've ****ed up one of two trophy possibilities amateurishly badly and had an utterly **** league start) so he could still turn things around. If he doesn't then its on him, the players and the club's broader management. Right now, it's on all of them.

Is he signing this players himself though? I remember when he came in he spoke about using his contacts in England to sign some players.

Not seen any evidence of that so far which makes me think he’s hardly involved.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[500miles]

Has he ever taken responsibility for a performance by the way? Because we seem to always need to turn things around in the second half, which suggests Plan A is a shambles.

I don't think it's a question of not working hard enough, because our goals are all coming late.

[Is It On....]

It's highly debatable if Kenneh is better than either Newell, JDH or Campbell. See Livi where he cost us points.

The point is that there is no clear player who should absolutely be playing every game over the three that started yesterday.

The 3 together don't work. We need someone that can take the ball forward like KM. The fact that he has been injured for 11 months and we haven't been able to get a similar type of player in the interim is the true failure of our recruitment policy.

[Ronniekirk]

L J now saying he expects a quiet transfer window and he will have to nurture and develop the players he has
I hope that’s just a broad headline
Surely we can afford at least one more experienced first team player thst can make a difference
With Rocky now out another few injuries to players would really see us up against it

[Mutu]

There’s an opportunity to find a balance though surely, the 3 that played yesterday and came up for so much grief last year don’t defend well and don’t play forward well…as a unit. If you add Kenneh he’ll offer cover to back 4 that’s missing with the others, I personally think it’s time we moved cadden in there as well drive us on box to box and use miller at RB the 3rd spot is up for grabs between what we have now or if we can add something else before the window closes

Totally take the point and I understand that the balance with those three is not good, but Kenneh is 19 years old in his first full season as a first team professional. He's maybe not there yet and the manager probably thinks this too otherwise he'd be in there week in week out.

The situation is atrocious right now, but LJ has very little options in the centre of the park. Criticising him for playing the only midfielders at the club is not particularly fair in my view.

I actually think the solution will be to have Stevenson play that holding role once he gets match fit. Let's wait and see.

[Iain G]

L J now saying he expects a quiet transfer window and he will have to nurture and develop the players he has
I hope that’s just a broad headline
Surely we can afford at least one more experienced first team player thst can make a difference
With Rocky now out another few injuries to players would really see us up against it

We need at least a centre half as a minimum!

[#2 Double Tap]

We need at least a centre half as a minimum!

Let’s hope the real slim shadie feels the same way.

[chrisski33]

Never mind the SAS, Red Arrows and snipers giving talks, we need a bunch of trick cyclists and counsellors to work out what is going on in their heads.

Yup all that stuff is talk. Pretty sure another Hibs manager tried stuff like that before and it didnt work. Bot sure who though

[SlickShoes]

We can't force players to leave, just have to hope the manager and coaching staff make them better players than they currently are.

[Springbank]

We can't force players to leave, just have to hope the manager and coaching staff make them better players than they currently are.

Personally I'd hand Christian Doidge a message

We intend to loan you to FC Edinburgh and we'll bring Delfierre back immediately

[#2 Double Tap]

Yup all that stuff is talk. Pretty sure another Hibs manager tried stuff like that before and it didnt work. Bot sure who though

Yogi done stuff like that.

[Billy Whizz]

Personally I'd hand Christian Doidge a message

We intend to loan you to FC Edinburgh and we'll bring Delfierre back immediately

Really classy

[supermcginn]

Really classy

Almost as classy as Doidge being pictured downing a bottle of champagne barely a few hours after a disgraceful cup final performance and defeat.

[wookie70]

Doidge is still starting which says LJ thinks he is the best we have available. That is very worrying in itself, given how poor he has been since returning. Solutions like sending him to FC Edinburgh are only of use if you can bring in better. From what the manager is saying our window may be over and Doidge is it until Nisbet is fit.

To me this season is about getting through and hopefully getting some of the younger players up to starters and hoping we don't get dragged into the relegation zone. That shows very poor planning by those in charge of the club and I think is mostly because we have bought far too many players that are projects. Many won't come to anything and because we seem to be perennially injury stricken we are having to use them as important parts of the squad. Poor management from the top down.

[MWHIBBIES]

Almost as classy as Doidge being pictured downing a bottle of champagne barely a few hours after a disgraceful cup final performance and defeat.


Seems like a decent time to have a drink. You do know he owes you absolutely **** all when hes off the clock right? Especially when the season is over.

I'm not a fan of professional athletes drinking really, but after the last game of the season they all do it, win or lose. Do you think he was happy about missing out on his first major medal as a professional? I doubt that very much.

[GreenGray]

Seems like a decent time to have a drink. You do know he owes you absolutely **** all when hes off the clock right? Especially when the season is over.

I'm not a fan of professional athletes drinking really, but after the last game of the season they all do it, win or lose. Do you think he was happy about missing out on his first major medal as a professional? I doubt that very much.

He looked happy in the video [emoji2371]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jones28]

He looked happy in the video [emoji2371]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Did you walk around with a torn face for the rest of the night or did you get on with your life and make the best of the day, like most people?

[easty]

He looked happy in the video [emoji2371]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I’ve been to funerals and had a good laugh at the wake afterwards. You’re allowed to be happy and sad at the same time.

[MWHIBBIES]

He looked happy in the video [emoji2371]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I too have occasionally smiled after a bad day at work.

[GreenGray]

Did you walk around with a torn face for the rest of the night or did you get on with your life and make the best of the day, like most people?

I wasn’t popping bottles of champagne put it that way. Don’t have an issue with players drinking particularly at end of season, but If you didn’t think that was a bad look for Doidge, particularly how poor we played, then you’re lying to yourself.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[cabbageandribs1875]

It's highly debatable if Kenneh is better than either Newell, JDH or Campbell. See Livi where he cost us points.

The point is that there is no clear player who should absolutely be playing every game over the three that started yesterday.


Doidge played his part

[easty]

I wasn’t popping bottles of champagne put it that way. Don’t have an issue with players drinking particularly at end of season, but If you didn’t think that was a bad look for Doidge, particularly how poor we played, then you’re lying to yourself.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

What’s a suitable drink for when you need to outwardly look like you’re hurting so that people off of the internet don’t get annoyed?

[GreenGray]

What’s a suitable drink for when you need to outwardly look like you’re hurting so that people off of the internet don’t get annoyed?

Yes that’s what I was annoyed about, the choice of drink, glad that’s what you decided to take from my post.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jones28]

What’s a suitable drink for when you need to outwardly look like you’re hurting so that people off of the internet don’t get annoyed?

You should be hunched over a tumbler of whisky in a dusty western saloon in 1885.

[Bridge hibs]

Almost as classy as Doidge being pictured downing a bottle of champagne barely a few hours after a disgraceful cup final performance and defeat.

Aye, he should have been hung drawn and quartered for that with his remains scattered across the uk

[percy veer]

Did you walk around with a torn face for the rest of the night or did you get on with your life and make the best of the day, like most people?

I was raging for a couple of days , probs like a good few hibs fans

[Wilson]

You should be hunched over a tumbler of whisky in a dusty western saloon in 1885.

He should be more miserable than allowing himself my normal weekend!

[Jones28]

I was raging for a couple of days , probs like a good few hibs fans

I was gutted. Not raging.

[WestStandWillie]

1 step forward, 2 steps back.

This squad, bar 2 or 3 individuals, is rotten. You can dress it up however you like but it’s true.

At current state of play, this squad is bottom 6 dross who’ll likely end up costing LJ his job.

[jacomo]

We have to stick with him. I don't see what the other options are. This core group of players have let down a number of managers now so the root cause to our problems are clear. We're going to have to be patient and be realistic as to where we are as a club.

LJ is dealing with seasons and seasons of horrible recruitment. How Doidge, Hanlon, Stevenson and that midfield three together are still getting routine games is really poor from our point of view.

Having said that I am overall been happy with the recruitment. I think players like Kenneh, Jair, Youan etc are the kind of signings we need to be making. The problem is we've not been able to bring in anyone experienced to play CB and CM. Think we would be looking at a different team if that had been the case.


:agree:

[Boyle89]

I went and watched johnsons 1st interview this morning. Here are some of the statements he made:
I want to play a high tempo brand of football
I turn the dial to quite attacking during games
Certainly attacking football is key for me
We want to feed the strikers and feed them early.
Now I think that LJ is being let down in many regards from recruitment to the players turning in terrible performances and of course a horrific list of injuries. Having said that he also stated he had done a lot or research on the squad before he took the job. Which makes it all the more baffling as to why he picks that midfield.
Whatever the circumstances as to why we have had such a poor start to the season, the fans deserve so much better from everyone involved at the club.

[theonlywayisup]

I went and watched johnsons 1st interview this morning. Here are some of the statements he made:
I want to play a high tempo brand of football
I turn the dial to quite attacking during games
Certainly attacking football is key for me
We want to feed the strikers and feed them early.

Now I think that LJ is being let down in many regards from recruitment to the players turning in terrible performances and of course a horrific list of injuries. Having said that he also stated he had done a lot or research on the squad before he took the job. Which makes it all the more baffling as to why he picks that midfield.
Whatever the circumstances as to why we have had such a poor start to the season, the fans deserve so much better from everyone involved at the club.

Agree, especially the bit in bold.

I've said it before, but I honestly don't believe that LJ went through a six hour interview to say he's happy to manage the same players that under-performed last season plus a large number of inexperienced young professionals. A team with next to no back-up in key positions.

[matty_f]

Agree, especially the bit in bold.

I've said it before, but I honestly don't believe that LJ went through a six hour interview to say he's happy to manage the same players that under-performed last season plus a large number of inexperienced young professionals. A team with next to no back-up in key positions.

I think it's easy for managers to make these statements before they realise the extent to which many teams in this league don't give a toss about "playing football" (accepting there are lots of ways to play football) and only want to pack the defence and break up play.

When you're faced with that week in/week out it's much harder to get the ball into strikers early because they're marked out the game or there's no space for them to play in.

It's no coincidence that our best performances have come against teams that expected to beat us and attacked.

[Iain G]

Agree, especially the bit in bold.

I've said it before, but I honestly don't believe that LJ went through a six hour interview to say he's happy to manage the same players that under-performed last season plus a large number of inexperienced young professionals. A team with next to no back-up in key positions.

He also said it could take 2 or 3 transfer windows to get it right.

We have improved on what we had last year and we are unlucky with McGeady getting injured (and probably now also Rocky given he was on better form than our other centre backs), but now need to bring in cover for Rocky and need to find a solution to the midfield in the next 2 days.

If we get into a place where we feed that ball forward early to Youan and Boyle then we will score goals.

[Northernhibee]

I think we need to look at the previous insistence of the board to get in a manager who plays attacking football. Every manager in the world would love to play an attacking, swashbuckling, entertaining style of football, even Craig Levein. Of course they want to entertain fans. Problem is that you have to earn the right to do that, and you largely do that by being a lot better, stronger, technically able and quicker than your opposing team. Daniel Stendel tried to do that with Hearts despite not having the players and failed badly.

I don't know if our board have kept that vision for us, but for a bit whilst we get better players in then we may need to be a bit more pragmatic in the short term. Attacking football being a "must have" smacks of naivety.

[Paulie Walnuts]

He also said it could take 2 or 3 transfer windows to get it right.

We have improved on what we had last year and we are unlucky with McGeady getting injured (and probably now also Rocky given he was on better form than our other centre backs), but now need to bring in cover for Rocky and need to find a solution to the midfield in the next 2 days.

If we get into a place where we feed that ball forward early to Youan and Boyle then we will score goals.

I honestly don’t see how anyone can say we’ve improved on last season.

Our PPG isn’t any better, in fact it’s probably worse, we got knocked out a piss easy league cup group and we’re playing a team hardly any different to the one that constantly let us down last season. The style of football isn’t any better either and it’s certainly not the style we were told to expect at the start of the season.

Imo there’s absolutely nothing to suggest we’re better than last season. That’s not to say it’s all LJs fault, much like I didn’t think the blame should really have been laid at Maloneys door either. The squad these guys are given to work with is staggeringly low in quality.

Whilst the standard of our squad remains so poor we won’t get any better.

[jeffers]

I honestly don’t see how anyone can say we’ve improved on last season.

Our PPG isn’t any better, in fact it’s probably worse, we got knocked out a piss easy league cup group and we’re playing a team hardly any different to the one that constantly let us down last season. The style of football isn’t any better either and it’s certainly not the style we were told to expect at the start of the season.

Imo there’s absolutely nothing to suggest we’re better than last season. That’s not to say it’s all LJs fault, much like I didn’t think the blame should really have been laid at Maloneys door either. The squad these guys are given to work with is staggeringly low in quality.

Whilst the standard of our squad remains so poor we won’t get any better.

I don’t see it either. Maybe get the ball up the park a bit quicker, but still missing someone creative in midfield (amongst other things) and still relying on Boyle to come up with something to get us a goal. While Youan isn’t a bad player I’ve seen nothing to merit the hype he was getting on another thread or suggest he’ll get us many goals.

[SlickShoes]

I don’t see it either. Maybe get the ball up the park a bit quicker, but still missing someone creative in midfield (amongst other things) and still relying on Boyle to come up with something to get us a goal. While Youan isn’t a bad player I’ve seen nothing to merit the hype he was getting on another thread or suggest he’ll get us many goals.

He has 3 assists in his 5 games, he was OK against St J, and at the weekend it was probably his worst outing, he missed a sitter and almost got sent off.

We still get loads of balls into the box but they are either, too hard, too long, too early, too late, the quality of the balls in just isn't there. We barely ever shoot from in or around the box, it just all seems to be about crosses and most of ours are poor, just look at our conversation rate from corners.

Once Youan was off, and our midfielders got the ball you could see Melkersen constantly making runs off his man's shoulder, but every time he did it the ball was endlessly passed across the midfield, eventually down the wing and then a crap ball was played into the box.

[jeffers]

He has 3 assists in his 5 games, he was OK against St J, and at the weekend it was probably his worst outing, he missed a sitter and almost got sent off.

We still get loads of balls into the box but they are either, too hard, too long, too early, too late, the quality of the balls in just isn't there. We barely ever shoot from in or around the box, it just all seems to be about crosses and most of ours are poor, just look at our conversation rate from corners.

Once Youan was off, and our midfielders for the ball you could see Melkerson constantly making runs off his man's shoulder, but every time he did it the ball was endlessly passed across the midfield, eventually down the wing and then a crap ball was played into the box.

Which is why I say he isn’t a bad player, and certainly one of the better signings we’ve made in the summer, but still not convinced he’ll get many goals. I don’t disagree regarding the lack of service. Oh for a Scott Allan in his prime.

[SideBurns]

I honestly don’t see how anyone can say we’ve improved on last season.

Our PPG isn’t any better, in fact it’s probably worse, we got knocked out a piss easy league cup group and we’re playing a team hardly any different to the one that constantly let us down last season. The style of football isn’t any better either and it’s certainly not the style we were told to expect at the start of the season.

Imo there’s absolutely nothing to suggest we’re better than last season. That’s not to say it’s all LJs fault, much like I didn’t think the blame should really have been laid at Maloneys door either. The squad these guys are given to work with is staggeringly low in quality.

Whilst the standard of our squad remains so poor we won’t get any better.

I have to agree, bemused at the idea we are better than last season. Without looking anything up (so happy to be corrected) we were doing OK in the league, and 1-0 up at Ibrox until Porto got sent off and the whole game changed. Similarly, we were looking pretty decent in Europe until Daz was red-carded. In November we beat the Huns at Hampden, and then came a form slump which led to JR getting his jotters before the cup final.

That's not to say I was particularly happy with the football on show generally at any point, but I'd be interested to hear how anyone thinks the evidence thus far points to an improvement.

[Trinity Hibee]

LJ has spoken out in the media about players and signings etc. and I’m starting to get the feeling he is becoming frustrated by what he has got to work with. Just my opinion but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him walk in a month or two if no improvement to save his reputation.

[CapitalGreen]

LJ has spoken out in the media about players and signings etc. and I’m starting to get the feeling he is becoming frustrated by what he has got to work with. Just my opinion but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him walk in a month or two if no improvement to save his reputation.

Maybe he’d be less frustrated if he actually prioritised getting midfielders in as soon as he arrived. 7 weeks ago he was saying he was happy with Newell, JDH and Campbell and had no plans to bring in any replacements for them.

LJ said he attended the Livingston game at the end of last season incognito. Well the only players who started in that game against Livi who started on Saturday were Hanlon, JDH and Newell, go figure.

[Hibee Daft]

We had a great result against Rangers last week, i was expecting us to pump St Mirren. Lets see how he changes it.

I still think the team will come good

[HendoDelivered]

LJ has spoken out in the media about players and signings etc. and I’m starting to get the feeling he is becoming frustrated by what he has got to work with. Just my opinion but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him walk in a month or two if no improvement to save his reputation.

This is what I think too.

[Hiber-nation]

We had a great result against Rangers last week, i was expecting us to pump St Mirren. Lets see how he changes it.

I still think the team will come good

Surely you weren't really expecting us to pump St Mirren. When I heard that team it was so obvious who would win the game.

[B.H.F.C]

LJ has spoken out in the media about players and signings etc. and I’m starting to get the feeling he is becoming frustrated by what he has got to work with. Just my opinion but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him walk in a month or two if no improvement to save his reputation.

If we don’t sort the glaring issue(s) which has a bit of a feeling of inevitability about it now he won’t last very long. He’ll either walk out of frustration relatively soon or get the bullet because we’re not winning.

Plenty comments from him over the last week which suggest he’s not happy IMO.

[hibeerealist]

LJ has spoken out in the media about players and signings etc. and I’m starting to get the feeling he is becoming frustrated by what he has got to work with. Just my opinion but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him walk in a month or two if no improvement to save his reputation.


IF LJ were to even drop a hint he might walk it would shirley give RG a shake as he would likely cop the fall out!

IF he is being let down he needs to do it NOW not in a couple of months as he wont survive unless there are new players brought in.

[bigwheel]

IF LJ were to even drop a hint he might walk it would shirley give RG a shake as he would likely cop the fall out!

IF he is being let down he needs to do it NOW not in a couple of months as he wont survive unless there are new players brought in.

Not sure where the narrative of “is LK being let down “ has come from ( I know it’s not from you )…He’s been front and centre of all the big decisions including players and staff . He’s as much in the mix as anyone else . Honestly , I’d say RG has as much right to claim he’s being let down as LJ…

[Paulie Walnuts]

Not sure where the narrative of “is LK being let down “ has come from ( I know it’s not from you )…He’s been front and centre of all the big decisions including players and staff . He’s as much in the mix as anyone else . Honestly , I’d say RG has as much right to claim he’s being let down as LJ…

The manager quite clearly doesn’t have the level of input into signings as is made out.

That’s the last two managers now who have been given absolute horror shows of squads with a raft of inexperienced players, a lot of whom have played pretty much no first team football thrust upon them.

I could have just about accepted Maloney may have done it naively and thought he’d be fine with young laddies. I don’t believe we happen to have appointed a second manager in a row who has wanted all these young lads we’re signing. Managers get so little time nowadays that it would be career suicide to walk into a job like Hibs where you’re trying to sort an almighty mess with a bunch of untested kids.

Maloney and Johnson have been shafted with the players they’re being given to work with.

[Basildon Hibs]

Maybe he’d be less frustrated if he actually prioritised getting midfielders in as soon as he arrived.


Correct.

[Basildon Hibs]

Not sure where the narrative of “is LK being let down “ has come from ( I know it’s not from you )…He’s been front and centre of all the big decisions including players and staff . He’s as much in the mix as anyone else . Honestly , I’d say RG has as much right to claim he’s being let down as LJ…

Correct.

[Tambo]

After 7 games so far this season we have created an average of 18.14 chances per game.

Can't say it's been negative football from Johnson.

50 chances created in the last two games alone.

(Stats from Google so hopefully correct)

[Since452]

We are going so seriously hammer a team pretty soon.

[GreenCastle]

After 7 games so far this season we have created an average of 18.14 chances per game.

Can't say it's been negative football from Johnson.

50 chances created in the last two games alone.

(Stats from Google so hopefully correct)

Days like today why it was so important to have Boyle back.

Plus new striker looks like he caused the centre backs problems.

Nice to finally have more physical presence up top.

[eastmainsmsh]

Play like that every week we will do ok 👍

[blackpoolhibs]

It was good to have a focal point to the team that actually knew how to hold the ball up and lay it off, rather than need a tackle as his 2nd and 3rd touch.

If he keeps that kind of performance up, we have a player.:thumbsup:

[A Hi-Bee]

Play like that every week we will do ok 👍

Correct, would also like him to come out and stick up for Porto by demanding a public apology from the poor mans Paul hollywood of Paisley.
:thumbsup:

[weecounty hibby]

Good interview after the game. When the fat jambo asked him if thatvwas the benchmark he said no, we still Need to get better. I like him!

[Jones28]

Once our strikers find their shooting boots we are going annihilate someone. I wouldn’t turning St Johnston over on the 21st next month 👌

[FitbaFolkKen]

Met Lee during the week was very impressed, far more candid in person than he is in the media.

He was very keen to get a result this weekend, described it as a season shaping game in terms of getting the buy in from the support.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[theonlywayisup]

So, I've read lots of positive comments written about LJ over the last few days. The Josh Campbell thread talks a lot about him having a coach that can utilise his key strengths. Many other examples out there.

So, are we all warming to LJ or has he still some work to do to convince you that he's a good manager.

Me, I've always been supportive of all our managers, but something is telling me that we've got a good one moving us forward.

Thoughts!

[Since452]

The most comfortable and confident I've been in a Hibs manager since Mowbray in all honesty. Just feel he's the real deal. The amount of chance we're creating each game is ridiculous. Attacking football. Not perfect yet but it's coming together.

[NC1875]

Wasn’t sure to start with but I think we’ll keep getting better under him.

Seen him at Haymarket yesterday, would’ve stopped him for a chat but he had a suitcase and looked in a hurry heading to the station.

Assume he’s away back home for the weekend with internationals being on.

[Donegal Hibby]

The most comfortable and confident I've been in a Hibs manager since Mowbray in all honesty. Just feel he's the real deal. The amount of chance we're creating each game is ridiculous. Attacking football. Not perfect yet but it's coming together.
When is name came up for the Hibs job he was the one I wanted even when it got down to JDT or LJ I still wanted LJ..Why just what you have said Attacking football.Remember watching his Bristol city team beating Man U and thought they were excellent .Even Pepe Guardiola has praised his style of football. Now he did get nicknamed streaky down in England so there will be bumps along the way though imo we will be entertained with good attaching football and hopefully more good times than bad .He also seems to have a good manner about him unlike somebody we know up at Aberdeen too.

[mjhibby]

It was good to have a focal point to the team that actually knew how to hold the ball up and lay it off, rather than need a tackle as his 2nd and 3rd touch.

If he keeps that kind of performance up, we have a player.:thumbsup:

I think our strikers performance on saturday has been largely overlooked but was vital in the win and will be going forward. He caused their defenders loads of problems,pulled the defence open for the second goal and lovely header down for the third. If josh had cut it back to him earlier he had an easy tap in. He is exactly what weve been missing and boyle and cadden and our superb left back know if we send in quality crosses he will get on the end of them. He looos tailor made for us. With magennis and mitchell back soon we will have a very strong bench to change if we need to. Loads of good things from the dons game that went unnoticed due to the erse goodwin.

[Oscar T Grouch]

You notice the big difference in the games we have played this season so far is the attacking. Last season we didn't lack crosses into the box, we lacked players in the box when those crosses came in. Look at the highlights of the Aberdeen game, there were constantly 3-5 players flooding the box when crosses came in. We have seen a few abject performances this season but I feel those have come from the players not doing what they've been asked to do, maybe because it is new, maybe a lack of confidence. When we play well it does take me back to the Mowbray days when you could watch us and think we were gonna score every time we ventured forward. This is probably hyperbole but we've probably already beaten last years total shots on goal in the 7 games we've played this season.
In our 3 wins we've had 64 shots on goal, our 2 losses we had 37 shots on goal and our two draws we had 26 shots on goal, those figures are more glasgow bigot type stats than Hibs stats! I think LJ is going to be great for us!

[matty_f]

You notice the big difference in the games we have played this season so far is the attacking. Last season we didn't lack crosses into the box, we lacked players in the box when those crosses came in. Look at the highlights of the Aberdeen game, there were constantly 3-5 players flooding the box when crosses came in. We have seen a few abject performances this season but I feel those have come from the players not doing what they've been asked to do, maybe because it is new, maybe a lack of confidence. When we play well it does take me back to the Mowbray days when you could watch us and think we were gonna score every time we ventured forward. This is probably hyperbole but we've probably already beaten last years total shots on goal in the 7 games we've played this season.
In our 3 wins we've had 64 shots on goal, our 2 losses we had 37 shots on goal and our two draws we had 26 shots on goal, those figures are more glasgow bigot type stats than Hibs stats! I think LJ is going to be great for us!

Completely agree with this.

I think we're starting to see things come together now - I don't think we got the credit we deserved in the draw with Rangers, that was an attacking performance and we were well in the game 11 v 11, and the wins against Kilkie and Aberdeen were very dominant performances.

We look very fit, we have scored late in games and on Saturday we were absolutely relentless, even after we'd gone ahead we were looking for more.

I do think Lee got off lightly with the League Cup exit - everyone had their knives out for Ian Gordon but for me, we should have got through regardless, but that said, we look like we're improving week on week and there's definitely a bit more depth to the squad now that some players are available again, and I can see the emergence of a very good, very entertaining side under Johnson.

[Since452]

When is name came up for the Hibs job he was the one I wanted even when it got down to JDT or LJ I still wanted LJ..Why just what you have said Attacking football.Remember watching his Bristol city team beating Man U and thought they were excellent .Even Pepe Guardiola has praised his style of football. Now he did get nicknamed streaky down in England so there will be bumps along the way though imo we will be entertained with good attaching football and hopefully more good times than bad .He also seems to have a good manner about him unlike somebody we know up at Aberdeen too.

Yup. Feel we are starting to play like "Hibs" again. An identity. He said when he came in that sometimes it won't work and we'll get a doing but I can accept that if more often than not we are the team battering at the door. Said it for a few weeks now that we're going to give a team a right going over. Aberdeen were lucky it was only 3-1. Yes, Livingston and St Mirren were poor but I can see what he's trying to do. Really optimistic about this. It won't be an over night thing but I'm starting to enjoy my football again.

[loanheadhibby]

Yup. Feel we are starting to play like "Hibs" again. An identity. He said when he came in that sometimes it won't work and we'll get a doing but I can accept that if more often than not we are the team battering at the door. Said it for a few weeks now that we're going to give a team a right going over. Aberdeen were lucky it was only 3-1. Yes, Livingston and St Mirren were poor but I can see what he's trying to do. Really optimistic about this. It won't be an over night thing but I'm starting to enjoy my football again.
Ross County away will tell a story.
I feel LJ is a lucky man to have the fans very much on his side despite us being 6th in the league.
Still it's early days and the signs were good in the Aberdeen game.

[B.H.F.C]

Ross County away will tell a story.
I feel LJ is a lucky man to have the fans very much on his side despite us being 6th in the league.
Still it's early days and the signs were good in the Aberdeen game.

I wouldn’t be reading too much in to league position at this point in the season. One win or defeat can be the difference in about three places either way.

The league performances are showing signs of improvement. For me there has been one real shocker in St Mirren away. Livingston was dreadful for 45 minutes but we should still have got something from it. Otherwise, the results are probably a fair reflection of the games.

League Cup was shocking but there are plenty signs of us heading in the right direction since. Second best defensive record in the league and things starting to look slightly better in the final third, although we could be doing with a striker starting to score regularly.

We need to go and win at Ross County though. The four teams above us play each other so a win sees us gain on at least a couple of them.

[Kato]

You notice the big difference in the games we have played this season so far is the attacking. Last season we didn't lack crosses into the box, we lacked players in the box when those crosses came in. Look at the highlights of the Aberdeen game, there were constantly 3-5 players flooding the box when crosses came in. We have seen a few abject performances this season but I feel those have come from the players not doing what they've been asked to do, maybe because it is new, maybe a lack of confidence. When we play well it does take me back to the Mowbray days when you could watch us and think we were gonna score every time we ventured forward. This is probably hyperbole but we've probably already beaten last years total shots on goal in the 7 games we've played this season.
In our 3 wins we've had 64 shots on goal, our 2 losses we had 37 shots on goal and our two draws we had 26 shots on goal, those figures are more glasgow bigot type stats than Hibs stats! I think LJ is going to be great for us!Our discussions at games have included comparison with Mowbray's eary side. His team clicked around October which included a win against Aberdeen funnily enough, Glass's goal was a cracker. There were glimpses in earlier games which also featured 20+ attempts at goal and loads of missed chances.

Sent from my SM-A528B using Tapatalk

[HFC93]

Ross County away will tell a story.
I feel LJ is a lucky man to have the fans very much on his side despite us being 6th in the league.
Still it's early days and the signs were good in the Aberdeen game.

If the next round of fixtures go our way we could be 3rd and if they don't we could be 8th. It's a tight league below the obvious two. So judging us on our league position right now seems a bit mad to me.

[Paul1642]

Ross County away will tell a story.
I feel LJ is a lucky man to have the fans very much on his side despite us being 6th in the league.
Still it's early days and the signs were good in the Aberdeen game.

It’s as much about the performance as results at the moment. The league is tight and we are very close to 3rd place which is out ultimate goal. We are also only a few bad results away from bottom 6.

The performances look good to me and that tends to turn into good results, which we are already starting to see. He’s also starting to get the best out of players such as Josh Campell. We also still have Nisbit, arguably out best player on his day, still to return as well as a few others.

If I remember when Hecky first took over we kept grinding out results yet the performances were always poor and the wheels came off big time eventually.

I think we would be foolish not to be on his side right know. Managers take time to click and the early signs for Lee are promising.

Also the age old question of who would we replace him with doest throw up any world beaters.

[JamesHFC]

If Nisbet, McGeady & Magennis come back from injury and hit a purple patch we will batter most teams.

[Carheenlea]

With Maloney, and Ross before him, it was becoming a bit of a chore watching Hibs with little excitement and predictable play. You could often predict how a game was going to pan out after about 15 minutes of play.

The biggest thing for me with Johnson is the fact that I’m getting out my seat on a regular basis during games, and have been going home feeling that I’ve enjoyed my afternoon out at the football. Yes, there’s been some dreadful results along the way, and we were sort of given the heads up on that happening occasionally from fans of his previous clubs.

You can see how he likes his teams to play, and we are starting to get there. He”a a likeable personality and looks to be a good fit for Hibs. There will be bumps along the way and hopefully these bumps will become fewer as the season wears on.

[Libby Hibby]

Ross County away will tell a story.
I feel LJ is a lucky man to have the fans very much on his side despite us being 6th in the league.
Still it's early days and the signs were good in the Aberdeen game.

You hate Hibs, eh?

[loanheadhibby]

You hate Hibs, eh?

How did you know?

[Leith Green]

With Maloney, and Ross before him, it was becoming a bit of a chore watching Hibs with little excitement and predictable play. You could often predict how a game was going to pan out after about 15 minutes of play.

The biggest thing for me with Johnson is the fact that I’m getting out my seat on a regular basis during games, and have been going home feeling that I’ve enjoyed my afternoon out at the football. Yes, there’s been some dreadful results along the way, and we were sort of given the heads up on that happening occasionally from fans of his previous clubs.

You can see how he likes his teams to play, and we are starting to get there. He”a a likeable personality and looks to be a good fit for Hibs. There will be bumps along the way and hopefully these bumps will become fewer as the season wears on.


Hopefully we can now find some stability as a club on the football side of things.. Would be good to see a couple of transfer windows with a relatively modest turnover of players . With a quality addition here and there. I think given time and the next couple of transfer windows we will be in a really good place this time next year.

And agree with your point about actually looking forward to games now , rather than dragging ourselves along. Dont get me wrong , there is plenty of room for improvement in various aspects of the team , but there are lots of positives and a clear attacking intent.

[B.H.F.C]

Hopefully we can now find some stability as a club on the football side of things.. Would be good to see a couple of transfer windows with a relatively modest turnover of players . With a quality addition here and there. I think given time and the next couple of transfer windows we will be in a really good place this time next year.

And agree with your point about actually looking forward to games now , rather than dragging ourselves along. Dont get me wrong , there is plenty of room for improvement in various aspects of the team , but there are lots of positives and a clear attacking intent.

I’m another who is looking forward to going again.

Don’t get me wrong, I came out of Livingston and St Mirren thinking **** this, nothing has changed and so on. But I’ve looked forward to every game so far. The late goals show a team with a bit of heart and desire, even if there is about a hundred things they can improve on.

We know Boyle is good for double figures. The midfield look like they should score a heck of a lot more between them. We really need another attacker or two to step up and start scoring regularly.

I do think the is a valid point about nearly all our points coming against ten men. It’s not our fault and it’s good we’ve taken advantage of it but we’re not going to continue playing against ten as regularly as we have.

[WhileTheChief..]

I think the break in games is doing us good and giving us the time we need.

Could hopefully be a strong second half to the season after the World Cup.

[Sir David Gray]

I’m another who is looking forward to going again.

Don’t get me wrong, I came out of Livingston and St Mirren thinking **** this, nothing has changed and so on. But I’ve looked forward to every game so far. The late goals show a team with a bit of heart and desire, even if there is about a hundred things they can improve on.

We know Boyle is good for double figures. The midfield look like they should score a heck of a lot more between them. We really need another attacker or two to step up and start scoring regularly.

I do think the is a valid point about nearly all our points coming against ten men. It’s not our fault and it’s good we’ve taken advantage of it but we’re not going to continue playing against ten as regularly as we have.

I think that is absolutely a valid point which can be made whilst also recognising that we can only play what we're up against and there are positive signs.

However 10 of our 11 points have come when the opposition have had at least one player sent off which is a bit of a concern.

[Unseen work]

I do get the point about playing against teams that have had players sent off but;

Kilmarnock- Boyle wiped out last man as he was through on goal and odds are he would have scored.

Aberdeen - Battered them for 45 minutes when they had 11 men, the player they subbed off was a striker as they were playing 442, I think regardless of the red we would have got something from that.

I think a point has to be made that our style is getting the opposition booked as we’re direct and quick. Under Maloney everything was in front of the opposition so less chance of defensive teams needing to make rash tackles.

[shetlandhibee]

I do get the point about playing against teams that have had players sent off but;

Kilmarnock- Boyle wiped out last man as he was through on goal and odds are he would have scored.

Aberdeen - Battered them for 45 minutes when they had 11 men, the player they subbed off was a striker as they were playing 442, I think regardless of the red we would have got something from that.

I think a point has to be made that our style is getting the opposition booked as we’re direct and quick. Under Maloney everything was in front of the opposition so less chance of defensive teams needing to make rash tackles.
:top marks this :agree:

[007]

I do get the point about playing against teams that have had players sent off but;

Kilmarnock- Boyle wiped out last man as he was through on goal and odds are he would have scored.

Aberdeen - Battered them for 45 minutes when they had 11 men, the player they subbed off was a striker as they were playing 442, I think regardless of the red we would have got something from that.

I think a point has to be made that our style is getting the opposition booked as we’re direct and quick. Under Maloney everything was in front of the opposition so less chance of defensive teams needing to make rash tackles.

Not to mention the Rangers game where we were denied a very good penalty claim, they then got the dodgiest penalty I've seen so we went in at half-time 1 down when it easily could have been 1 up. We then scored 5 minutes into the 2nd half so can be agrieved that was only to equalise and not to be 2 up. All whilst they still had 11 on the pitch.

[Donegal Hibby]

I think that is absolutely a valid point which can be made whilst also recognising that we can only play what we're up against and there are positive signs.

However 10 of our 11 points have come when the opposition have had at least one player sent off which is a bit of a concern.
Apart from Morelos and Murray Davidson who lost the plot a bit .The others that were sent off were lundstram .scales and Taylor and were sent off because of our attacking play imo . We are going at teams and getting men into the opposition's box in good numbers and teams can't cope with us doing this so it's something I'm personally not to concerned about .

[matty_f]

I think in most of the games where we’ve been 11 v 11 we’ve been at least as good as the opposition and more often than not, better (awful performances first half v Livi and full game vSt Mirren aside). I don’t get this reluctance to give credit where it’s due.

[Sir David Gray]

Apart from Morelos and Murray Davidson who lost the plot a bit .The others that were sent off were lundstram .scales and Taylor and were sent off because of our attacking play imo . We are going at teams and getting men into the opposition's box in good numbers and teams can't cope with us doing this so it's something I'm personally not to concerned about .

As I say there are positive signs, particularly on Saturday where I thought we were the better side even before the red card.

However out of the 9 goals we've scored in the league so far, only 3 of them have been scored against 11 men and we didn't take the lead by scoring any of those goals nor did we go onto win any of those games.

It's quite a unique run of results we've had so far where 4 out of our 7 opponents have had men sent off, as I say that's not our fault and it's great we're taking advantage of it but 1 point from games v 11 men so far isn't great and I just hope that we can continue to play well and pick up the points when the red cards for the opposition inevitably start to dry up.

[hibsbollah]

I think in most of the games where we’ve been 11 v 11 we’ve been at least as good as the opposition and more often than not, better (awful performances first half v Livi and full game vSt Mirren aside). I don’t get this reluctance to give credit where it’s due.

I agree with that, and I’m happy with the LJ regime like I was on day one, but I think it’s misleading to reel off the shot stats which are at Man City levels, without referencing the situation with the amount of time our opponents are down to 10.

[Libby Hibby]

I agree with that, and I’m happy with the LJ regime like I was on day one, but I think it’s misleading to reel off the shot stats which are at Man City levels, without referencing the situation with the amount of time our opponents are down to 10.

Are sending offs not part of football? I think it’s fair to mention the sending offs but keeping it in context as the two don’t necessary go hand in hand, it’s like we are trying to find a reason as to why our shot count can be so high.

Tavanier at Rangers would be nowhere near top goal scorer if it wasn’t for all the penalties he scores. But at the end of the day, he is top goal scorer and the penalties count.

I suppose what I'm trying to say is we should not forget about the sending offs but that doesn’t make us any less of a good side because we are playing against less.

[green day]

If you look at the OptaStats guy site -

https://theanalyst.com/eu/2022/08/scottish-premiership-stats-2022-23/

You see from the stats that our style is now much faster and more attacking.

Whatever the ultimate outcome of this season, I dont think we can deny that LJ will have changed our style completely (and imo to a much more attractive way of playing).

Yes, we will have the occasional blip against the "anti football" type of team, after all we are not Man City !

But I am sure that over the season we will improve - esp as we get injured players back in.

[hibsbollah]

Are sending offs not part of football?

They are indeed.

But they don’t happen to your opponent all that often. And the argument that the sending offs have only happened because of our good play is only partly true. We don’t believe the Huns when they use the argument that their high possession stats in and around the box are the sole reason for why they get so many penalties. Or at least I hope we’re not that gullible.

Definite grounds for optimism in terms of the style of the play, the tactics and the willingness to commit numbers into attacking areas. A bit of shooting practice now required and we can start talking seriously about challenging for 3rd. Anyone know our shot accuracy %?

[Since452]

I think the break in games is doing us good and giving us the time we need.

Could hopefully be a strong second half to the season after the World Cup.

I agree with that. Im sure LJ will be quietly happy about the international break. Let's the new guys integrate into the squad and the likes of Magennis catch up.The mood will be good around the place after a couple of back to back wins.

[Jim44]

I think in most of the games where we’ve been 11 v 11 we’ve been at least as good as the opposition and more often than not, better (awful performances first half v Livi and full game vSt Mirren aside). I don’t get this reluctance to give credit where it’s due.

I think it’s a plus that we have been able to see off teams that have had players sent off. In recent times, we could very well have struggled to take advantage of the situation. I clearly remember Craig Brown, in his managerial days, going on about teams, reduced to ten men, often had an advantage because they parked the bus, closed ranks, and could be difficult to play against.

[J-C]

I didn't know what Heckingbottom was trying, Ross only play counter attack so found it hard to break down stubborn teams, Maloney wanted possession football but didn't have players to do it. I can immediately tell what KJ is trying, solid in the middle with pace in the front 3, the DM makes the midfield tick as he allows the other 2 to be creative,standard 433 tactics, enjoying watching the team again.

[Donegal Hibby]

As I say there are positive signs, particularly on Saturday where I thought we were the better side even before the red card.

However out of the 9 goals we've scored in the league so far, only 3 of them have been scored against 11 men and we didn't take the lead by scoring any of those goals nor did we go onto win any of those games.

It's quite a unique run of results we've had so far where 4 out of our 7 opponents have had men sent off, as I say that's not our fault and it's great we're taking advantage of it but 1 point from games v 11 men so far isn't great and I just hope that we can continue to play well and pick up the points when the red cards for the opposition inevitably start to dry up.
Your right about the unique run of results on how 4 out of 7 opponents have had a man sent off .Though 3 of them are from our quick , direct attacking play.As for when Red cards inevitable dry up as you say and they will no doubt I'm hoping we will be ok .Don't think we have fully clicked upfront on a scoring sense yet though I do think that's not far away. What has surprised me is the amount of possession we are having as Johnson said his style of play isn't based on possession maybe 52% or 54% I think he said though maybe this is cause teams have lost men and are sitting in deep.

[jacomo]

Are sending offs not part of football? I think it’s fair to mention the sending offs but keeping it in context as the two don’t necessary go hand in hand, it’s like we are trying to find a reason as to why our shot count can be so high.

Tavanier at Rangers would be nowhere near top goal scorer if it wasn’t for all the penalties he scores. But at the end of the day, he is top goal scorer and the penalties count.

I suppose what I'm trying to say is we should not forget about the sending offs but that doesn’t make us any less of a good side because we are playing against less.


I think people are keeping in context. It remains a valid point, as does the point that we are regularly conceding the first goal in games.

There’s a general recognition of encouraging signs, but room for further improvement.

[Northernhibee]

The more you run at opposition players and try to take them on, the more likely you are to be awarded a penalty kick or free kick and in turn the chances of them receiving a yellow or red card increase.

It’s a sign that we’re putting individual opposition players under more pressure which comes from a more ambitious playing style.

[Bobby's Cinema]

With Maloney, and Ross before him, it was becoming a bit of a chore watching Hibs with little excitement and predictable play. You could often predict how a game was going to pan out after about 15 minutes of play.

The biggest thing for me with Johnson is the fact that I’m getting out my seat on a regular basis during games, and have been going home feeling that I’ve enjoyed my afternoon out at the football. Yes, there’s been some dreadful results along the way, and we were sort of given the heads up on that happening occasionally from fans of his previous clubs.

You can see how he likes his teams to play, and we are starting to get there. He”a a likeable personality and looks to be a good fit for Hibs. There will be bumps along the way and hopefully these bumps will become fewer as the season wears on.
:top marks well said. Watching the way we had bodies streaming forward getting beyond on Saturday - what a difference!!!
Our link-ups all over the park seemed to be improving and hopefully we can keep the home form going :aok:

[basehibby]

I think that is absolutely a valid point which can be made whilst also recognising that we can only play what we're up against and there are positive signs.

However 10 of our 11 points have come when the opposition have had at least one player sent off which is a bit of a concern.

While I would like to see our forwards putting away more chances I don't see this as a great concern. The opposition has had men sent off precisely because we have been forcing the play in and around their box and forcing errors. This is bourne out by the great number of chances we are seeing carved out - averaging 18 a game IIRC.

Of course we want to be scoring more of our chances but I'm pretty confident we will start seeing that happen. There is plenty of competition for spaces up front and we have some pacey and capable players vying for them such that I'll be surprised if we don't see the likes of Youan, Melkerson, Kukarevuch and McKirdy finding the back of the net pretty damn soon.

[Donegal Hibby]

Think Lee Johnson will have a big summer on his hands . Apparently he has 13 players either out of contract or loan is over .Can anyone confirm this ? Maybe a load of Tom kite .

[Sir David Gray]

Think Lee Johnson will have a big summer on his hands . Apparently he has 13 players either out of contract or loan is over .Can anyone confirm this ? Maybe a load of Tom kite .

I make it 9;

Porteous
Schofield
Stevenson
Bojang
Dabrowski
Youan
Fish
McGeady
Kukharevych

[Donegal Hibby]

I make it 9;

Porteous
Schofield
Stevenson
Bojang
Dabrowski
Youan
Fish
McGeady
Kukharevych
Was told 13 that could be wrong though . 5 loans in there .

[poolman]

Classic case of the OP jumping in with his sized 13s when he's hardly in the door.

Jeezo 🙄

[Donegal Hibby]

I make it 9;

Porteous
Schofield
Stevenson
Bojang
Dabrowski
Youan
Fish
McGeady
Kukharevych
Was told 13 and didn't know .Do believe your right it's 9 .Thanks mate :aok:

[Donegal Hibby]

Classic case of the OP jumping in with his sized 13s when he's hardly in the door.

Jeezo 🙄
Care to explain the jumping in and hardly in the door bit??

[J-C]

I make it 9;

Porteous
Schofield
Stevenson
Bojang
Dabrowski
Youan
Fish
McGeady
Kukharevych

Stevenson may do the same as McGregor and be a player coach, McGeady I'm not fussed about, 5 loans not on our books, only one of importance is Porteous.

[Sir David Gray]

Stevenson may do the same as McGregor and be a player coach, McGeady I'm not fussed about, 5 loans not on our books, only one of importance is Porteous.

I agree at this moment in time Porteous is the only one I'm looking to see stay on.

[mcohibs]

Care to explain the jumping in and hardly in the door bit??

OP jumping to a conclusion that the manager will be a failure, despite only being in charge for 4 games at the time of posting.

[Eyrie]

Stevenson may do the same as McGregor and be a player coach, McGeady I'm not fussed about, 5 loans not on our books, only one of importance is Porteous.


I agree at this moment in time Porteous is the only one I'm looking to see stay on.

I'd add Youan as one I'd like to keep. There's plenty of season left for one of us to change our opinion though.

I'd also like Stevenson to stay until he retires but would understand if he leaves to get playing time elsewhere.

[Donegal Hibby]

I'd add Youan as one I'd like to keep. There's plenty of season left for one of us to change our opinion though.

I'd also like Stevenson to stay until he retires but would understand if he leaves to get playing time elsewhere.
I agree with you on this.Youan is a very good player and I think we have a option to buy too.what. Worries me a little is his 900,000 transfer market value .Stevenson is still fit and a good player also a Hibs legend so I'd keep too.like the keeper too.As you say plenty of season left to assess the rest.:aok:

[B.H.F.C]

I agree with you on this.Youan is a very good player and I think we have a option to buy too.what. Worries me a little is his 900,000 transfer market value .Stevenson is still fit and a good player also a Hibs legend so I'd keep too.like the keeper too.As you say plenty of season left to assess the rest.:aok:

Youan showed some promise initially but has been poor the last few games. Got a fair bit to do before I’d be thinking of shelling out a fee for him. He’s one of the attacking players that needs to step up and start putting the ball in the net.

Not writing him off as I think there is something there to work with but we need to start seeing a bit more from him.

[Sir David Gray]

I'd add Youan as one I'd like to keep. There's plenty of season left for one of us to change our opinion though.

I'd also like Stevenson to stay until he retires but would understand if he leaves to get playing time elsewhere.

I wouldn't be spending money on Youan as things stand. He's shown glimpses of being a decent player but has also thrown in some really poor performances lately.

I'd like to see him put in a run of decent performances and maybe score a few goals before making any decisions to buy him.

I would only be letting Stevenson go if he expressed a desire to continue with first team football instead of taking up the offer of a coaching/mentoring role with us.

He should have a role within the club for as long as he wants one.

[Donegal Hibby]

Youan showed some promise initially but has been poor the last few games. Got a fair bit to do before I’d be thinking of shelling out a fee for him. He’s one of the attacking players that needs to step up and start putting the ball in the net.

Not writing him off as I think there is something there to work with but we need to start seeing a bit more from him.
I think he's a quality player fast , direct and tricky at times .Had a great shot in Dons game that the keeper saved. I like him a lot though you are right that he needs to add goals to his game. Hopefully when he gets his first which btw seems to be hard to get at the minute more will follow.Interesting story in EEN about how Hibs are doing under Lee Johnson if anyone's interested

[Smartie]

I think he's a quality player fast , direct and tricky at times .Had a great shot in Dons game that the keeper saved. I like him a lot though you are right that he needs to add goals to his game. Hopefully when he gets his first which btw seems to be hard to get at the minute more will follow.Interesting story in EEN about how Hibs are doing under Lee Johnson if anyone's interested

I've liked Youan so far for the reasons you mentioned but I thought he was absolutely dreadful against Aberdeen, that effort on goal aside.

It has been said that a few of our players have played whilst being "ill" recently, he certainly looked that way. Maybe he wouldn't have played if McKirdy was available but he looked to be playing through a knock or something, either that or he'd had a heavy one the night before.

He was miles off the level he'd showed in the games prior to that one.

[Donegal Hibby]

I've liked Youan so far for the reasons you mentioned but I thought he was absolutely dreadful against Aberdeen, that effort on goal aside.

It has been said that a few of our players have played whilst being "ill" recently, he certainly looked that way. Maybe he wouldn't have played if McKirdy was available but he looked to be playing through a knock or something, either that or he'd had a heavy one the night before.

He was miles off the level he'd showed in the games prior to that one.
I agree it wasn't his best game though I thought he done ok .About McKirdy btw isn't he more of a right sided player? Reason I ask is someone mentioned before about playing him on the right and moving Boyle to the left .For me I wouldn't like that at all. Boyles far more effective on the right imo

[poolman]

OP jumping to a conclusion that the manager will be a failure, despite only being in charge for 4 games at the time of posting.



:agree: was self explanatory I thought

[Donegal Hibby]

Off the Lee Johnson topic for a sec .I see Shaun Maloney saying in papers how the Hibs experience will stand him in good stance for his next club .Doesn't say anything bad about us actually speaks well about us. I really found Hibs hard to watch when he was manager though.

[worcesterhibby]

Off the Lee Johnson topic for a sec .I see Shaun Maloney saying in papers how the Hibs experience will stand him in good stance for his next club .Doesn't say anything bad about us actually speaks well about us. I really found Hibs hard to watch when he was manager though.

funny I watched half of the Belgium Wales match the other night with Maloney in mind and I though Belgium played terrible, boring possession football for most of it, interspersed with some magic from De Bruyn. At one point the same two players passed back and forth between each other about 5 times on the edge of the Wales box, before recycling the ball back into midfield, then defence, then to the goalie, they’d had about 6 chances to whip in a cross, but just seemed obsessed with retaining the ball. If you have De Bruyn, Hazard, Mertens and bathshuayi, then you only need 3 or 4 chances in a game to score, but play the same style of football with Doidge and Melkerson and you gets lots of possession and very few goals.

wales are no great shakes, A Belgium Team with Klopp as manager would have won 9-0

[hibsbollah]

I agree it wasn't his best game though I thought he done ok .About McKirdy btw isn't he more of a right sided player? Reason I ask is someone mentioned before about playing him on the right and moving Boyle to the left .For me I wouldn't like that at all. Boyles far more effective on the right imo

McKirdy has played all across the front three positions, and he said he doesn’t have a preference.

[Donegal Hibby]

McKirdy has played all across the front three positions, and he said he doesn’t have a preference.
That's good .means we can leave Boyle on right if we decide to go with McKirdy .MyKola has also played a couple of times as a LW.Think Lee Johnson will probably stick with the same team that we played against Dons for Ross county game.

[hibsbollah]

That's good .means we can leave Boyle on right if we decide to go with McKirdy .MyKola has also played a couple of times as a LW.Think Lee Johnson will probably stick with the same team that we played against Dons for Ross county game.

I was pondering earlier that people generally think the 6’4” guy should automatically be in the middle of the three, but I suppose logically that isn’t necessarily always correct, it’s potentially just as useful to have tall player out wide, with the number of long diagonal balls that get played these days? You can still have him occupying a central area for set pieces.

But if I was a betting man I’d say first choice three from left to right will be McKirdy, Kukharevych, Boyle.

[Donegal Hibby]

I was pondering earlier that people generally think the 6’4” guy should automatically be in the middle of the three, but I suppose logically that isn’t necessarily always correct, it’s potentially just as useful to have tall player out wide, with the number of long diagonal balls that get played these days? You can still have him occupying a central area for set pieces.

But if I was a betting man I’d say first choice three from left to right will be McKirdy, Kukharevych, Boyle.
It's definitely another option playing Kukharevych out there even if he has only played there a couple of times. And as you say let him come central for corners and set pieces.your front 3 is pretty good to be fair. Cant remember us having so many options upfront for a long time and with Nisbet ,Merkelson and Mcgeady to come back theres sum choices for us now.

[FilipinoHibs]

I think he's a quality player fast , direct and tricky at times .Had a great shot in Dons game that the keeper saved. I like him a lot though you are right that he needs to add goals to his game. Hopefully when he gets his first which btw seems to be hard to get at the minute more will follow.Interesting story in EEN about how Hibs are doing under Lee Johnson if anyone's interested

I think his problem is passing to a Hibs player instead of trying to di it all himself.

[B.H.F.C]

I was pondering earlier that people generally think the 6’4” guy should automatically be in the middle of the three, but I suppose logically that isn’t necessarily always correct, it’s potentially just as useful to have tall player out wide, with the number of long diagonal balls that get played these days? You can still have him occupying a central area for set pieces.

But if I was a betting man I’d say first choice three from left to right will be McKirdy, Kukharevych, Boyle.

I think that will be the front three against Ross County.

The thing that is lacking this season, Boyle aside, is goals from our attacking players. Two of the three places in that front three are well up for grabs. Getting goals from those positions is looking like the difference between an average season and a good season at the moment for me.

[Donegal Hibby]

I think that will be the front three against Ross County.

The thing that is lacking this season, Boyle aside, is goals from our attacking players. Two of the three places in that front three are well up for grabs. Getting goals from those positions is looking like the difference between an average season and a good season at the moment for me.
Your right about lack of goals upfront though I still think this is down to we haven't clicked and maybe make the wrong choices at the crucial moment. Like Campbell did instead of cutting ball back for Kukharevych to have a easy goal he tried to score from a tight angle with the keeper on top of him. Not knocking Campbell btw thought he was excellent .we are creating some serious chances and having plenty of shots and do think we will come good soon .All about personal choices on front 3. For now I'm going to stick with Youan , kukharevych. , Boyle.

[Viva_Palmeiras]

OP jumping to a conclusion that the manager will be a failure, despite only being in charge for 4 games at the time of posting.

Sorry folks, I’m still scratching my head what was unclear about that sentence you had to explain, either short attention spans, declining standards at school or someone being obtuse?

[cameronw-hfc]

I think his problem is passing to a Hibs player instead of trying to di it all himself.

He's done alright, 3 assists so far this season, more than anyone else in our squad! Think he's desperate for a goal and it shows

[Donegal Hibby]

Sorry folks, I’m still scratching my head what was unclear about that sentence you had to explain, either short attention spans, declining standards at school or someone being obtuse?
That would be me your on about .I am sorry got things wrong being new on forum . Attention spans normally ok and no ones ever called me Obtuse before either .As for my school days got a reasonable education there .And learnt many other things like treating people with respect and not to call people names.Hope this brings a end to your head scratching now it's bad for your hair :aok:

[hibsbollah]

He's done alright, 3 assists so far this season, more than anyone else in our squad! Think he's desperate for a goal and it shows

:agree: We don't get that equaliser in the derby without some outrageous play from him to assist Boyle. He's still played not much more than a handful of games, goals sometimes come in rushes, as we saw with pre-injury Doidge (and almost everyone really!) Some comments about how bad he was against Aberdeen, if their goalie doesnt get a great hand to that 25 yarder cutting in from the left first half we'd be talking differently.

[JimBHibees]

:agree: We don't get that equaliser in the derby without some outrageous play from him to assist Boyle. He's still played not much more than a handful of games, goals sometimes come in rushes, as we saw with pre-injury Doidge (and almost everyone really!)

I wouldnt be dropping Youan anytime soon gives us raw pace which is a huge asset especially in away games.

[hibsbollah]

I wouldnt be dropping Youan anytime soon gives us raw pace which is a huge asset especially in away games.

I suppose he's the name that you think will drop down when McKirdy comes in. Just good to have some options and competition for places.

[Since452]

I suppose he's the name that you think will drop down when McKirdy comes in. Just good to have some options and competition for places.

Youan has come from a much higher level than McKirdy. I don't think McKirdy will be starting over him to be honest.

[GreenCastle]

I wouldnt be dropping Youan anytime soon gives us raw pace which is a huge asset especially in away games.

Looked like Youhan confidence was maybe knocked a little during Aberdeen game but he kept going and played ok and think it was the best front 3 we have seen this season.

[JimBHibees]

Looked like Youhan confidence was maybe knocked a little during Aberdeen game but he kept going and played ok and think it was the best front 3 we have seen this season.

Think there was some chat he may not have been well no idea if true but certainly looked off the pace.

[hibsbollah]

Youan has come from a much higher level than McKirdy. I don't think McKirdy will be starting over him to be honest.

I suppose it depends how you look at it. Is someone with a stack of goals in a single season in the English 4th tier be considered more likely than a graduate at a French Ligue 1 club who has scored less goals in the Swiss top tier? They both like they've got a lot of attributes. No way of knowing really, and it will depend what they show Lee Johnson in training.

[Mcbizz1998]

Youan has come from a much higher level than McKirdy. I don't think McKirdy will be starting over him to be honest.

Doesn’t matter what level he comes from, if McKirdy comes in and starts scoring goals then he will be well ahead of Youan.

[Libby Hibby]

For me, Youan has the shirt. He’s been part of the 11 that’s won 2 games in a row for the first time in god knows how long.

It’s great to have competition and the current front 3 will know that a severe drop in form, injury or suspension and their place may be lost for a while.

[Since452]

Doesn’t matter what level he comes from, if McKirdy comes in and starts scoring goals then he will be well ahead of Youan.

He'll need to take his chance when it comes through injury or suspension to Youan. Just think it might take McKirdy a while to adjust to the higher level.

[bigwheel]

He'll need to take his chance when it comes through injury or suspension to Youan. Just think it might take McKirdy a while to adjust to the higher level.

Or Form …….

[sahpaton]

He'll need to take his chance when it comes through injury or suspension to Youan. Just think it might take McKirdy a while to adjust to the higher level.

We’ve got 9 games in the next 6 weeks so there will be good chances for him and others to come in through rotation before injuries and suspensions become a factor. Youan has done well but wouldn’t say his spot in the side is nailed down to that extent. There will be plenty opportunities for players to come in and make places their own between now and the World Cup.

[Hibbyradge]

We’ve got 9 games in the next 6 weeks so there will be good chances for him and others to come in through rotation before injuries and suspensions become a factor. Youan has done well but wouldn’t say his spot in the side is nailed down to that extent. There will be plenty opportunities for players to come in and make places their own between now and the World Cup.

Are you who I think you are? 😀

[Since452]

Another game, another win, another 20+ shots on goal, up to 3rd. LJ promised us entertainment and he's delivering. Wonder if Mickey Stewart thinks we have an identity yet

[The Spaceman]

Where are you all now? 🤫

[FilipinoHibs]

He has transformed us. Good to watch and we are looking very fit. Sports science kicking in.

[Keith_M]

LJ did say it would take a while to get the team into the style of play he wants and it seems to be working now.

Not a dig at our last couple of managers by any means but it's great to see such an attacking side, and one that;s finally getting the results that style of play deserves.

[Sir David Gray]

Happy with what's happening at the moment, long may it continue.

[A Hi-Bee]

Wheres awe the pseudo jamboids then :take that

[Hibs90]

After a bad performance or a few folk are a bit negative, similarly after a few good wins people get a bit too excited.

Let's keep it going with another next week. Things starting to look up now.

[Donegal Hibby]

Really enjoyed LJ 's post match interview said we should have scored more 3 or 4 . Good professional performance.Mentioned the Harry Mckirdy song being a interesting one too .

[hibee1875]

Really enjoyed LJ 's post match interview said we should have scored more 3 or 4 . Good professional performance.Mentioned the Harry Mckirdy song being a interesting one too .

What is the McKirdy song?

[Donegal Hibby]

What is the McKirdy song?
Very good question . Didn't know there was one:dunno:

[Smartie]

What is the McKirdy song?

Does it sound like the Birdie Song?

[Lancs Harp]

Does it sound like the Birdie Song?

Bloody hope not. :)

[Mick O'Rourke]

Does it sound like the Birdie Song?


Or maybe the Hari Krishna mantra :singing::singing:

[Lancs Harp]

More to the point what was Lee wearing today?

[Aldo]

Does it sound like the Birdie Song?

Really that’s now rattling about my heid [emoji2957]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[e2los]

More to the point what was Lee wearing today?

Looked like a badly fitted support bra to me.

GGTTH!

[SlickShoes]

After a bad performance or a few folk are a bit negative, similarly after a few good wins people get a bit too excited.

Let's keep it going with another next week. Things starting to look up now.

It's usually brutal after a single loss, whatever the next game we lose, the same stuff will come up, ron and his son, Lee, strikers, midfield.

We don't look great yet but it is a vast improvement on last season so long may it continue.

[Northernhibee]

I said on the thread outlying what would constitute a successful season this time around that I'd consider looking forward to the next game and enjoying the football we play to be a big step forward.

As it stands, it looks as if that'll be mission accomplished. Football under Maloney was the single most miserable tenure in a long, long time and I think I even include Butcher in that. Maloney had some half decent players in the team but still had us with eleven players back at set pieces, barely registering a shot on target a game. It was absolutely unwatchable, he's an utter, utter fraud of a manager.

This is beginning to feel like progress. To go from where we were to where we are now is tremendous - players that were much maligned like Josh Campbell and Joe Newell beginning to look like real attacking threats in their play is very promising and a sign that they're being managed well.

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Every week I like what LJ says. The fact he wasn't happy that we only won 2-0 today. He obviously wants the team to improve week on week. I think Hibs under LJ will be some ride. 😄

[Donegal Hibby]

It's usually brutal after a single loss, whatever the next game we lose, the same stuff will come up, ron and his son, Lee, strikers, midfield.
I
We don't look great yet but it is a vast improvement on last season so long may it continue.
I'm sure LJ said when he took over he needed 2 or 3 transfer windows. As to not looking great .I think we are playing some nice stuff and averaging around 20 shots a game . Definitely on the right track now and we will lose though patience and a little faith required in what I believe is a very good manager and backroom team.

[Mcbizz1998]

Very good question . Didn't know there was one:dunno:

Don’t worry there is a whole thread on it where nobody will reveal what it is.

[B.H.F.C]

Loads more chances today. We just need to find that bit extra quality up top, we’re too wasteful.

Other than that, we’re starting to look like a well set up team who know what they’re doing IMO. The importance of getting Boyle back can’t be overstated though.

[Donegal Hibby]

Don’t worry there is a whole thread on it where nobody will reveal what it is.
Must be a copyright thing then? :greengrin

[basehibby]

Loads more chances today. We just need to find that bit extra quality up top, we’re too wasteful.

Other than that, we’re starting to look like a well set up team who know what they’re doing IMO. The importance of getting Boyle back can’t be overstated though.

Boyle just keeps on stepping up - the guy is a legend. We have brought a clutch of forwards in over the summer - some of whom already look to be very good players but none of them (save Boyle) have been finding the net - so far. Johnson has got us playing on the front foot though, and we have been creating a fantastic amount of chances. Keep that up and surely these guys will start chipping in with a few. If not, Nisbet and Melkerson will soon be ready to push them for a place.

[J-C]

Johnston did tell us to give his team 8-9 games and start judging him then, well it's about that time and I'm liking what I'm seeing, fast paced attacking football with lots of shots and now with injuries starting to clear up, some good options.

[Crunchie]

Johnston did tell us to give his team 8-9 games and start judging him then, well it's about that time and I'm liking what I'm seeing, fast paced attacking football with lots of shots and now with injuries starting to clear up, some good options.
It's a pity he had to spell that out :agree:

[Trinity Hibee]

Johnston did tell us to give his team 8-9 games and start judging him then, well it's about that time and I'm liking what I'm seeing, fast paced attacking football with lots of shots and now with injuries starting to clear up, some good options.

He did indeed. Must say I was concerned after the league cup as that disaster should never have happened regardless of him just coming through the door.

However, the last month or so in particular has shown a marked improvement in the style of play and the individual players themselves. We are starting to look like a team capable of getting 3rd and you’d think we are only going to get stronger now with long term absentees returning to the squad.

It feels like mowbray’s first season. Capable of dominating teams and get good results although suspect we’ll lose a few games that we maybe wouldn’t expect to. Looking forward to seeing how this team do at Celtic park in a couple of weeks.

[neil7908]

I was worried earlier in the season but delighted to see things clicking with the manager.

We do need to be a bit more clinical up top but with Nisbet and Magennis to come back in things are really looking up.

[Since452]

We're looking a very good team. Promising so early in his tenure.

[weecounty hibby]

Read this on twitter so hope its right. Lee said at the start of the season that we'd need 10 to 12 games to see how his team would do. We've just won games 10 11 and 12.

[Billy Whizz]

I think the consistency of selection is helping
Apart from the odd change or 2, 8 or 9 players are starting every week now

[green day]

I think the consistency of selection is helping
Apart from the odd change or 2, 8 or 9 players are starting every week now

Yes, he seems to have worked out a formation that is getting results.

Great to see him introduce Magennis to get some minutes in.

Really looking forward to having him and Nisbet back in contention !

[matty_f]

Yes, he seems to have worked out a formation that is getting results.

Great to see him introduce Magennis to get some minutes in.

Really looking forward to having him and Nisbet back in contention !

I don’t think the formation has changed much since day one, it will during games as he reacts to what’s happening but we’ve broadly lined up in the same shape consistently, IIRC.

What we’re seeing is (imho) evidence of a team getting used to the demands, the fitness improving, and players being available and ready to play.

There’s undeniable progress being made with the team, we’re exciting to watch, controlling games, happy to match up against anyone and we carry a real threat going forward.

[hibsbollah]

I don’t think the formation has changed much since day one, it will during games as he reacts to what’s happening but we’ve broadly lined up in the same shape consistently, IIRC.

What we’re seeing is (imho) evidence of a team getting used to the demands, the fitness improving, and players being available and ready to play.

There’s undeniable progress being made with the team, we’re exciting to watch, controlling games, happy to match up against anyone and we carry a real threat going forward.

But but...I still just dont see what Lee Johnsons trying to do...

[B.H.F.C]

I don’t think the formation has changed much since day one, it will during games as he reacts to what’s happening but we’ve broadly lined up in the same shape consistently, IIRC.

What we’re seeing is (imho) evidence of a team getting used to the demands, the fitness improving, and players being available and ready to play.

There’s undeniable progress being made with the team, we’re exciting to watch, controlling games, happy to match up against anyone and we carry a real threat going forward.

The point about fitness is a good one. We look pretty strong physically. Second half yesterday I thought we totally overran them. We were getting loads of bodies in the box and the full backs, in particular, get up and down the park all day.

[Heisenberg]

Remember there were people seriously suggesting big racist Malky for the job 😂

After the league cup shambles I was fearing the worst but we have significantly improved since then. Hopefully we continue as we are. The football yesterday in the second half was a joy to watch.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Remember there were people seriously suggesting big racist Malky for the job 😂

After the league cup shambles I was fearing the worst but we have significantly improved since then. Hopefully we continue as we are. The football yesterday in the second half was a joy to watch.

Thank **** we never got Mackay. A ****bag who’s a pish manager.

Agree with your last paragraph, we’ve improved significantly recently. Boyle has made a huge difference especially.

[Unseen work]

Massive turnaround in players, style and results.

Deserves a huge amount of credit but it’s still so early and it’s good to hear him saying we can get better, he himself doesn’t seem to be getting carried away and always seems genuinely honest when he speaks.

If he can get Kukharevych, Youan and McKirdy scoring too then that would be brilliant.

[Paulie Walnuts]

I said on the thread outlying what would constitute a successful season this time around that I'd consider looking forward to the next game and enjoying the football we play to be a big step forward.

As it stands, it looks as if that'll be mission accomplished. Football under Maloney was the single most miserable tenure in a long, long time and I think I even include Butcher in that. Maloney had some half decent players in the team but still had us with eleven players back at set pieces, barely registering a shot on target a game. It was absolutely unwatchable, he's an utter, utter fraud of a manager.

This is beginning to feel like progress. To go from where we were to where we are now is tremendous - players that were much maligned like Josh Campbell and Joe Newell beginning to look like real attacking threats in their play is very promising and a sign that they're being managed well.

Maloney had a shambles of a team.

You say Maloney had a lot of half decent players - where are they all now then? There’s a reason next to none of the players from the second half of last season are playing anymore and it’s because they were garbage.

Out of our current starting 11, only Cadden, Newell and Campbell played regularly for Maloney. Hanlon was injured, Porteous was perma suspended. After that, the rest of our players who start games are new. If the squad we had second half of last season was decent, we’d have a lot more of the same players still here and playing. The reality is that it wasn’t anywhere near decent, we even lined up for a Scottish Cup semi with Stevenson in centre mid and James Scott up top on his own because it was all we had :faf:

To make out like he had a good squad to choose from is laughable, the squad the second half of last season was an abomination.

Johnson has done very well to get a tune out of Newell and Campbell and the signing of Boyle and Marshall has really pushed us on a level. Having Porteous back and playing has helped as well.

[Northernhibee]

Maloney had a shambles of a team.

You say Maloney had a lot of half decent players - where are they all now then? There’s a reason next to none of the players from the second half of last season are playing anymore and it’s because they were garbage.

Out of our current starting 11, only Cadden, Newell and Campbell played regularly for Maloney. Hanlon was injured, Porteous was perma suspended. After that, the rest of our players who start games are new. If the squad we had second half of last season was decent, we’d have a lot more of the same players still here and playing. The reality is that it wasn’t anywhere near decent, we even lined up for a Scottish Cup semi with James Scott up top because it was all we had :faf:

To make out like he had a good squad to choose from is laughable, the squad the second half of last season was an abomination.

Johnson has done very well to get a tune out of Newell and Campbell and the signing of Boyle and Marshall has really pushed us on a level. Having Porteous back and playing has helped as well.

And Cadden, Newell and Campbell look like completely different players under a competent manager. Same with Bushiri.

Maloney is a total, total fraud. Thank **** the future is bright under Lee and Maloney will be lucky to be assistant at East Fife U9s going forward.

[JimBHibees]

Has done a good job and did indicate when he came in it would take a bit of time which was just common sense. Think we will only get better given the number of young players. He is certainly getting improved performances from a number of key players Newell Campbell Porto etc. Signings of Marshall and Boyle have been game changers as has having a decent central striker who can link the play and get us up the pitch.

[Northernhibee]

I wonder what Chris Mueller would have looked like under Lee.

[Jones28]

I wonder what Chris Mueller would have looked like under Lee.

That’s an interesting point.

I’m still not sure what happened with Mueller. Was it his decision to leave or was a mutual one?

[Wilson]

I wonder what Chris Mueller would have looked like under Lee.

Big coat and an owl.

[MWHIBBIES]

Maloney had a shambles of a team.

You say Maloney had a lot of half decent players - where are they all now then? There’s a reason next to none of the players from the second half of last season are playing anymore and it’s because they were garbage.

Out of our current starting 11, only Cadden, Newell and Campbell played regularly for Maloney. Hanlon was injured, Porteous was perma suspended. After that, the rest of our players who start games are new. If the squad we had second half of last season was decent, we’d have a lot more of the same players still here and playing. The reality is that it wasn’t anywhere near decent, we even lined up for a Scottish Cup semi with Stevenson in centre mid and James Scott up top on his own because it was all we had :faf:

To make out like he had a good squad to choose from is laughable, the squad the second half of last season was an abomination.

Johnson has done very well to get a tune out of Newell and Campbell and the signing of Boyle and Marshall has really pushed us on a level. Having Porteous back and playing has helped as well.

His tactics were worse, though. Maloney was well out of his depth.

[easty]

Maloney had a shambles of a team.

You say Maloney had a lot of half decent players - where are they all now then? There’s a reason next to none of the players from the second half of last season are playing anymore and it’s because they were garbage.

Out of our current starting 11, only Cadden, Newell and Campbell played regularly for Maloney. Hanlon was injured, Porteous was perma suspended. After that, the rest of our players who start games are new. If the squad we had second half of last season was decent, we’d have a lot more of the same players still here and playing. The reality is that it wasn’t anywhere near decent, we even lined up for a Scottish Cup semi with Stevenson in centre mid and James Scott up top on his own because it was all we had :faf:

To make out like he had a good squad to choose from is laughable, the squad the second half of last season was an abomination.

Johnson has done very well to get a tune out of Newell and Campbell and the signing of Boyle and Marshall has really pushed us on a level. Having Porteous back and playing has helped as well.

Maloney is a shambles of a manager.

[Heisenberg]

His tactics were worse, though. Maloney was well out of his depth.

He’s basically admitted that himself. Said the other week on Sportscene that he’s gone away and tried to learn from other managers when it comes to getting their teams to score goals. His style of football was the most boring we’ve seen for a long time.

[Northernhibee]

He’s basically admitted that himself. Said the other week on Sportscene that he’s gone away and tried to learn from other managers when it comes to getting their teams to score goals. His style of football was the most boring we’ve seen for a long time.
It’s called “having a shot at goal”, Shaun.

[Donegal Hibby]

It’s called “having a shot at goal”, Shaun.
One of the main things he seemed unable to get us to do. His Hibs team was like watching Paint dry on a wall. :yawn:

[Paulie Walnuts]

And Cadden, Newell and Campbell look like completely different players under a competent manager. Same with Bushiri.

Maloney is a total, total fraud. Thank **** the future is bright under Lee and Maloney will be lucky to be assistant at East Fife U9s going forward.

Cadden was one of the few bright spots under Maloney. I’m not sure he looks a completely different player, it’s been business as usual from him as far as I’m concerned.

Newell and campbell, absolutely, but then they’ve got the benefit of not having an abysmal team around them this season.

Rocky has played 3 league games, one of them he gave away a needless penalty and he wasn’t exactly exceptional in the hearts game. Decent, but had a few moments. 2 fresh air swipes and another that was a mm of a stud away from being a 3rd. A bit early to be saying he looks a completely different player imo.

Maloneys time at Hibs tells us very little about his ability as a manager imo.

If you go back and read the threads about what the starting 11 should be in the next game under him it was clear to see he was on a hiding to nothing. The 11s put forward by everyone were all absolutely crap because the players we had available were absolutely crap. There’s not a manager within our reach who would have done well with a team who relied on James Scott and a finished Christian Doidge being supplied by Sylvester Jasper, Drey Wright, Chris Mueller and Henderson. For all folk say his tactics were crap, it was telling that the suggestions put forward as to what he should be doing were either just as bad or more often than not even worse.

[GreenGray]

Remember there were people seriously suggesting big racist Malky for the job [emoji23]

After the league cup shambles I was fearing the worst but we have significantly improved since then. Hopefully we continue as we are. The football yesterday in the second half was a joy to watch.

There was people clamouring for McInnes too! Thank **** for Lee


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Donegal Hibby]

There was people clamouring for McInnes too! Thank **** for Lee


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
That is actually quite scary now when you think about it Malky McKay and Derek McInnes as two candidates for the Hibs job.

[Hibbyradge]

That is actually quite scary now when you think about it Malky McKay and Derek McInnes as two candidates for the Hibs job.

Only on here.

[Onion]

Maloney is a shambles of a manager.

Still recovering from Malloney. What on earth were Hibs thinking ?

Surprisingly good start for LJ, given the pre-season and some of the signings we've made, however really pleased to hear some of the TV commentators highlighting Hibs "good team spirit". That's something other Hibs managers have struggled to engender, so big credit to LJ. Last season we were a rabble of individuals, relying on Boyle to win us points. / games.

Let's give LJ a few more months before we proclaim him a success. Jack Ross proved that.

[Ronniekirk]

He said it would take around 10 games in before things started to click snd based on past three results he is being proved right
Clearly there will e more bumps along the way and it would help to get our injured players back and match fit
My biggest area of concern is the number of forward players we have that don’t score ( Boyle being the exception )
Mckirdy needs more game time to see what he can do

[MWHIBBIES]

He said it would take around 10 games in before things started to click snd based on past three results he is being proved right
Clearly there will e more bumps along the way and it would help to get our injured players back and match fit
My biggest area of concern is the number of forward players we have that don’t score ( Boyle being the exception )
Mckirdy needs more game time to see what he can do

The most important thing is the chances we are creating. Which we were in earlier games too. Falkirk we should've scored 3 or 4. Same with Livi. We were always going to start winning I think.

Important to keep it up, keep it fresh and not get figured out, though. Some very winnable games coming up. Could easily be going into the world cup a few points clear in 3rd.

[Donegal Hibby]

Lee Johnson is going to have some tough choices to make when everyone's back fit again and we will have a very strong bench in all . Think Kevin Nisbet would score plenty with the amount of chances and shots were creating at the minute.

[Iain G]

Lee Johnson is going to have some tough choices to make when everyone's back fit again and we will have a very strong bench in all . Think Kevin Nisbet would score plenty with the amount of chances and shots were creating at the minute.

Fitting Nisbet, Boyle, Youan, McKirdy, Bojang, Tavares, McGeady, Mitcjell and Mykola in is going to be hard!

[Donegal Hibby]

Fitting Nisbet, Boyle, Youan, McKirdy, Bojang, Tavares, McGeady, Mitcjell and Mykola in is going to be hard!
And Merkelson too mind :greengrin . Really can't remember for a long time having such good options up front .it's nearly a team of attackers. So here's the big question .what 3 would you pick?

[Tambo]

The most important thing is the chances we are creating. Which we were in earlier games too. Falkirk we should've scored 3 or 4. Same with Livi. We were always going to start winning I think.

Important to keep it up, keep it fresh and not get figured out, though. Some very winnable games coming up. Could easily be going into the world cup a few points clear in 3rd.

Yes even in the games we have lost we have created aloy of chances.

I know not all chances are clear cut chances and maybe count of the xG but another 24 yesterday and also a lot of possession which ain't just playing about at the back etc.

Going off the spfl website we have had 151 shots so far this season 2nd only 9 behind celtic and again 2nd in goals conceded.

The midfield also is looking like a good balance so long may it continue and we can push on for a successful campaign.

[Trinity Hibee]

That’s an interesting point.

I’m still not sure what happened with Mueller. Was it his decision to leave or was a mutual one?

Left to run an owl sanctuary back home

[B.H.F.C]

Yes even in the games we have lost we have created aloy of chances.

I know not all chances are clear cut chances and maybe count of the xG but another 24 yesterday and also a lot of possession which ain't just playing about at the back etc.

Going off the spfl website we have had 151 shots so far this season 2nd only 9 behind celtic and again 2nd in goals conceded.

The midfield also is looking like a good balance so long may it continue and we can push on for a successful campaign.

I keep banging on about it, but we need another forward to step up and start scoring with some regularity. If we find that, we’ll take a bit of stopping with the number of chances we’re creating.

Think Johnson has just simplified things. Play the ball forward quicker, get bodies up the park and on to second balls and all that kind of thing. Goals yesterday probably demonstrate that.

Good thing yesterday, and against Aberdeen, is that we didn’t sit back when we got ourselves in front. We kicked in and looked to kill the game. That comes from the manager for me.

[andrew70]

And Merkelson too mind :greengrin . Really can't remember for a long time having such good options up front .it's nearly a team of attackers. So here's the big question .what 3 would you pick?

Boyle Nisbet McKirdy would be my 3 if all 100% fit.

[sleeping giant]

He's delivered on his promise for enjoyable football.
Makes such a difference.
Winning helps too :-)

[bigwheel]

Boyle Nisbet McKirdy would be my 3 if all 100% fit.

The big boy upfront has played himself into a starting role so far for me ..McKirdy early days, so much more to come from him ….but wouldn’t start before Kuharevich at the mo for me

[Donegal Hibby]

Boyle Nisbet McKirdy would be my 3 if all 100% fit.
3 good players players no doubt though I much prefer Boyle on right were I think he's more effective. Somebody's definitely going to shoot me down for my 3 . Mcgeady , Nisbet, Boyle would be my picks :duck:

[HH81]

Nisbet won't get back in the team.

[Mcbizz1998]

Nisbet won't get back in the team.

Would be surprised by that. He remains the best finisher at the club and once fit I expect him to get back in.

He will need to prove himself though, he won’t be an automatic pick.

[ErinGoBraghHFC]

3 good players players no doubt though I much prefer Boyle on right were I think he's more effective. Somebody's definitely going to shoot me down for my 3 . Mcgeady , Nisbet, Boyle would be my picks :duck:

McGeady McKirdy Boyle for me


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Donegal Hibby]

The big boy upfront has played himself into a starting role so far for me ..McKirdy early days, so much more to come from him ….but wouldn’t start before Kuharevich at the mo for me
Would you play Kukharevych in the centre and sacrifice Nisbet or play Kukharevych on the left ?

[Mick O'Rourke]

That’s an interesting point.

I’m still not sure what happened with Mueller. Was it his decision to leave or was a mutual one?


[On January 20, 2022, Mueller made his debut for Hibernian (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hibernian_F.C.), he was allowed to return to the US in May 2022.
Hibs chief executive Ben Kensell said that Mueller had struggled to "adapt to the pace and physicality" of Scottish football.]
Ben maybe being diplomatic.

Personally,i think he also was surprised, if not shocked ,at the levels of fitness needed to compete here.

Or he may have just been homesick for buffalo wings and Wendy's eggs benedict !:greengrin

[GreenGray]

McGeady McKirdy Boyle for me


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Did McGeady do enough when he had his opportunities? I’m not so sure.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[HoboHarry]

[On January 20, 2022, Mueller made his debut for Hibernian (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hibernian_F.C.), he was allowed to return to the US in May 2022.
Hibs chief executive Ben Kensell said that Mueller had struggled to "adapt to the pace and physicality" of Scottish football.]
Ben maybe being diplomatic.

Personally,i think he also was surprised, if not shocked ,at the levels of fitness needed to compete here.

Or he may have just been homesick for buffalo wings and Wendy's eggs benedict !:greengrin

More likely he was shocked to see scones served with jam and not gravy :greengrin

[Wilson]

Nisbet won't get back in the team.

When fit we have the luxury of easing him back in. The players with the shirts are doing the job so Nisbet can make appearances from the bench. Certainly that will happen. He'll make match day squads and sub appearances.

After that starts are there to be won and he is capable of that when fit and focussed. I can't see any reason to write him off.

[bigwheel]

Nisbet won't get back in the team.

Still our best striker imo

[Donegal Hibby]

Would be surprised by that. He remains the best finisher at the club and once fit I expect him to get back in.

He will need to prove himself though, he won’t be an automatic pick.
I agree think Nisbet is probably our best goalscorer and works hard for the team .Both him and Boyle on form would be first picks in Hibs team imo

[HH81]

When fit we have the luxury of easing him back in. The players with the shirts are doing the job so Nisbet can make appearances from the bench. Certainly that will happen. He'll make match day squads and sub appearances.

After that starts are there to be won and he is capable of that when fit and focussed. I can't see any reason to write him off.

Not writing him off just don't think he was very good before his injury and we have improved massively up front since.

[bigwheel]

Would you play Kukharevych in the centre and sacrifice Nisbet or play Kukharevych on the left ?

I’d play Nisbet through the middle

[MWHIBBIES]

Nisbet won't get back in the team.

Far too early to be making statements like that. I actually think he'd be excellent in this team.

[J-C]

Nisbet won't get back in the team.

Nisbet has very good movement and would thrive in a team that attacks and is on the front foot all the time, he struggled due to the way Ross had his team playing.

[Unseen work]

Based on what I’ve seen of the players available to play front 3 it would be McGeady - Nisbet - Boyle imo.

Not sure about McKirdy as a left winger (granted very small window) but all of his clips I saw of him was as a centre forward or running down the right using his pace.

Hopefully he adjusts but either way our options are brilliant when everyone is fit

[Hibbyradge]

That is actually quite scary now when you think about it Malky McKay and Derek McInnes as two candidates for the Hibs job.

Has everyone forgotten about Roy Keane?:faf:

[Mick O'Rourke]

More likely he was shocked to see scones served with jam and not gravy :greengrin


Owl second that!
And the gravy is mince !
Talking mince,some relatives who lived in Indiana, would stock up with gravy salt when they came hame fur a holiday.

Chris appears to be doing ok at Chicago Fire