Midfield

[SickBoy32]

Nice to see Newell back to his best today when he's no playing against a pub team

No coincidence the bulk of his goals have came in July vs crap

Him and JDH are absolutely brutal to watch in the middle

[Willis1875]

I’m going to call it early, Levitt will be a dud. Not because he’s a bad player but because of how we want to use him and he will have all performances sucked out of him playing alongside a combination of Newell, Campbell & JDH.

I almost think our best option as it stands it to go back to the Jack Ross playbook and just give up on the midfield from the start. Play Jeggo & Levitt in a 442 and have everything come through Boyle and Youan, with Doidge & Vente up top. We’re effectively missing out the midfield anyway shelling balls into the corners or to the strikers.

The new striker might fall into the same category as Levitt,we simply don’t create enough chances and certainly not in the manner of which Vente has said that he likes balls in behind for him to run into

[SaulGoodman]

Nice to see Newell back to his best today when he's no playing against a pub team

No coincidence the bulk of his goals have came in July vs crap

Him and JDH are absolutely brutal to watch in the middle

Newell was fine today

[Alfred E Newman]

I doubt if there is another team in the league that has a worse midfield than us.

[Allant1981]

Nice to see Newell back to his best today when he's no playing against a pub team

No coincidence the bulk of his goals have came in July vs crap

Him and JDH are absolutely brutal to watch in the middle

Newell was fine today, certainly not the issue

[The Modfather]

Aren't we using Levitt like every other team he's ever played for though? He played further forward on Thursday and was hopeless.

A deep lying playmaker wont make any difference to our midfield IMO. It’s essentially just a replication of what Newell & JDH do, to varying degrees. Signing that type of player, and only that type of player, is just chucking another body into the mix to still have a one paced midfield, that plays in front of the opposition, with no creativity or drive. A dream midfield to play against where lesser teams can simply run over the top of it.

Statistically we’ll still have a midfield amongst the best in the league though.

[SickBoy32]

Newell was fine today, certainly not the issue

O'Hara absolutely strolled it throughout - a proper player

We will achieve nothing with players like Newell, forever slowing it down giving it to the centre half, 9/10 late in the challenge, never ever threatens a goal - just brutal

[Real Emerald]

A deep lying playmaker wont make any difference to our midfield IMO. It’s essentially just a replication of what Newell & JDH do, to varying degrees. Signing that type of player, and only that type of player, is just chucking another body into the mix to still have a one paced midfield, that plays in front of the opposition, with no creativity or drive. A dream midfield to play against where lesser teams can simply run over the top of it.

Statistically we’ll still have a midfield amongst the best in the league though.

Completely agree, it’s a wasted {£) signing that will make no difference with the current players we have.

[gazzag70]

Newell would probably be fine in a midfield with better players around him. Doyle Hayes and him should never play together in the middle. It doesn’t work, never has, but here we go again. A new season same players, same old script. Why do we sign players to sit on the bench?

[sauzeelegod]

Jeggo needs to come back in.

If we’re playing 433 then he has to be the 6.
Levitt and Newell as the 2 box to box CM’s.

I’d have Miller and Obita as the fullbacks and both inverted to play beside Jeggo.

Boyle and Ellie out wide and the new boy through the middle.

[hfcok]

When he changed the midfield Newell was bang on it. You could see after 5 minutes that we had no midfield with formation he played.
Campbell needs to stop falling over all the time as well.

[Willis1875]

When he changed the midfield Newell was bang on it. You could see after 5 minutes that we had no midfield with formation he played.
Campbell needs to stop falling over all the time as well.

Campbell can’t run with the ball,one of the many things he can’t seem to do

[SaulGoodman]

Jeggo needs to come back in.

If we’re playing 433 then he has to be the 6.
Levitt and Newell as the 2 box to box CM’s.

I’d have Miller and Obita as the fullbacks and both inverted to play beside Jeggo.

Boyle and Ellie out wide and the new boy through the middle.

Exactly what I would do.

[LewysGot2]

I think one of the issues is the midfield is still not suited to every eventuality in the league. JDH is always best in the bigger games where we are on the back foot more, need to break up play and spoil. A case in hand was Celtic games last season- he very much delivered that. When we need to prise stuffier teams open the midfield is less able to create enough or get the ball forward or wide quickly enough to hurt other sides. We have pace in Boyle, who will need time to get fully up to speed and Youan (nae H!) whose decision making is variable and who can be a bit chicken hearted in spells.

Newell is the best of the Campbell-JDH-Jeggo alternatives. He was rightly PotY last season. But we need something that provides the key to the door against the Ross Co and Killies and Livis of this world.

[tonyrougier123]

Jeggo needs to come back in.

If we’re playing 433 then he has to be the 6.
Levitt and Newell as the 2 box to box CM’s.

I’d have Miller and Obita as the fullbacks and both inverted to play beside Jeggo.obita wasn’t very good for me the day.

Boyle and Ellie out wide and the new boy through the middle.

I’ve nae idea how Jeggo has been dropped,has to play over JDH.

[NC1875]

What midfield ?

[SaulGoodman]

What midfield ?

I’m not sure, I only watch Hibs games but I think the midfield is the three cheerleaders who sort of stand in the middle of the pitch and cheer as the left back launches diagonal balls over their heads to the Striker, maybe they blow the ball forward as it goes above them like the people with the brushes in curling?

[PH91]

One thing that will always stick out to me was when he first arrived he claimed to have watched us a few times and knew where we needed to improve.

Midfield was definitely one of these areas and from the pre-season and first few competitive games it seems the defence looks shakey.

Levitt could become a shrewd signing but from what I've seen so far it wasn't what we needed.

We needed an upgrade on Jeggo and Campbell.

Will alway back Hibs whatever had happened the week before but I'm starting to get fed up with Johnson.

Exactly this. We had an upgrade for campbell too, he is just fresh off beating the rangers this weekend. I hate to think we paid him to leave then paid even more to bring in levitt.

Baccus and especially O'Hara were great today btw, not for the first time against us.

[LaMotta]

Jeggo needs to come back in.

If we’re playing 433 then he has to be the 6.
Levitt and Newell as the 2 box to box CM’s.

I’d have Miller and Obita as the fullbacks and both inverted to play beside Jeggo.

Boyle and Ellie out wide and the new boy through the middle.


Jeggo was poor again when he came on. Kicked the ball out of the pitch with no one near him and gave away a foul. Obita hasn't looked great so far either.

[LaMotta]

Exactly this. We had an upgrade for campbell too, he is just fresh off beating the rangers this weekend. I hate to think we paid him to leave then paid even more to bring in levitt.

Baccus and especially O'Hara were great today btw, not for the first time against us.

:agree: If Magennis does stay fit I think that will be one we will regret unfortunately.

[JohnM1875]

Jeggo was poor again when he came on. Kicked the ball out of the pitch with no one near him and gave away a foul. Obita hasn't looked great so far either.

Thought Obita struggled early doors but settled really well. Decent cross on him as well.

[LaMotta]

Thought Obita struggled early doors but settled really well. Decent cross on him as well.

He def improved as the game went on :agree:

[Hiber-nation]

Jeggo was poor again when he came on. Kicked the ball out of the pitch with no one near him and gave away a foul.

Sold the winning goal by not sticking with his man. He's miles below what we need if we're serious about challenging for 3rd.

[B.H.F.C]

He def improved as the game went on :agree:

He was never in the game for the first half an hour he was on but, agree, he was decent thereafter.

Concern I have with Obita is a that I think he’s another one we’ve brought in but don’t really have a plan as to how to use him. In his pre season games he played higher up the park, but we’re looking for a left back, then today he plays as a wingback. We’ve got too many players who end up shunted about and we have no continuity. No surprise that the decent spells we had last season were when kept a pretty settled team.

[LaMotta]

Sold the winning goal by not sticking with his man. He's miles below what we need if we're serious about challenging for 3rd.

Really? I haven't seen the goal back yet. Shocking. One of the biggest myths in Hibs.net history is the story that Jeggo is an organisational genius who helps shore up our defence.

[LaMotta]

He was never in the game for the first half an hour he was on but, agree, he was decent thereafter.

Concern I have with Obita is a that I think he’s another one we’ve brought in but don’t really have a plan as to how to use him. In his pre season games he played higher up the park, but we’re looking for a left back, then today he plays as a wingback. We’ve got too many players who end up shunted about and we have no continuity. No surprise that the decent spells we had last season were when kept a pretty settled team.

Agreed. He may take time to settle but not been overly impressed so far. Hopefully if gets a run in the team that might change.

[B.H.F.C]

Really? I haven't seen the goal back yet. Shocking. One of the biggest myths in Hibs.net history is the story that Jeggo is an organisational genius who helps shore up our defence.

From seeing the winning goal I’d blame Fish more than anyone else. He was looking at the boy that scored but didn’t get round to cover him.

[Hiber-nation]

Really? I haven't seen the goal back yet. Shocking. One of the biggest myths in Hibs.net history is the story that Jeggo is an organisational genius who helps shore up our defence.

Never noticed till I saw the highlights. He's just not a top 6 player. Poor on the ball and not great defensively. Could imagine him at St Johnstone or similar.

Having said that I'd still have started him today.

[Hiber-nation]

From seeing the winning goal I’d blame Fish more than anyone else. He was looking at the boy that scored but didn’t get round to cover him.

I was amazed even Fish made it back to his own box as he looked shattered.

[LaMotta]

From seeing the winning goal I’d blame Fish more than anyone else. He was looking at the boy that scored but didn’t get round to cover him.

Just watched the goal back - Jeggo def makes wrong decision to go to the front post and leave the scorer. I'm not sure Fish could get back in time from where he was, but it looks like he shouts to Jeggo to go over to the pick up the other runner - so that could be a big error from Fish ( and absolve Jeggo a bit). Hanlon jogging back doing nothing of note. Shambles allround:boo hoo:

[B.H.F.C]

I was amazed even Fish made it back to his own box as he looked shattered.

Certainly did better in that regard than Paul Hanlon when you see his efforts to get back in.

I didn’t think we looked for today at all.

[Paulie Walnuts]

I’m going to call it early, Levitt will be a dud. Not because he’s a bad player but because of how we want to use him and he will have all performances sucked out of him playing alongside a combination of Newell, Campbell & JDH.

I almost think our best option as it stands it to go back to the Jack Ross playbook and just give up on the midfield from the start. Play Jeggo & Levitt in a 442 and have everything come through Boyle and Youan, with Doidge & Vente up top. We’re effectively missing out the midfield anyway shelling balls into the corners or to the strikers.

I know it’s early days but Levitt is absolutely screaming Stevie Mallan to me.

Didn’t get the hype when he signed, definitely don’t get it now.

Me and you have been banging the drum about a more mobile, box to box, Docherty type midfielder. O’Hara would improve our midfield ten fold imo.

[Smartie]

He was never in the game for the first half an hour he was on but, agree, he was decent thereafter.

Concern I have with Obita is a that I think he’s another one we’ve brought in but don’t really have a plan as to how to use him. In his pre season games he played higher up the park, but we’re looking for a left back, then today he plays as a wingback. We’ve got too many players who end up shunted about and we have no continuity. No surprise that the decent spells we had last season were when kept a pretty settled team.

It was weird in that it was like someone clicked their fingers and 5 or 6 players bucked their ideas up. Maybe it was the tweak when ALF came on that instigated it but immediately Doidge, Obita, Stevenson, Newell and Youan looked like different players.

[Smartie]

From seeing the winning goal I’d blame Fish more than anyone else. He was looking at the boy that scored but didn’t get round to cover him.

I’ve not seen it back but it looked at the time like Levitt was most culpable. He was knackered and desperate for someone to take his runner off him but there wasn’t anyone and instead of stopping them in their own half they seemed to have freedom to push up that park. Not seen it back though.

At the time I thought it was a ****show from the moment the cross left Newell’s boot.

[B.H.F.C]

Just watched the goal back - Jeggo def makes wrong decision to go to the front post and leave the scorer. I'm not sure Fish could get back in time from where he was, but it looks like he shouts to Jeggo to go over to the pick up the other runner - so that could be a big error from Fish ( and absolve Jeggo a bit). Hanlon jogging back doing nothing of note. Shambles allround:boo hoo:

I think Jeggo had to go when he sees O’Hara making that run and Fish needs to make the run. I think it’s a good run from O’Hara which has a major part in the goal. It’s just a bit of desire that our captain wasn’t showing at the same time to get back in to the same area.

[Ozyhibby]

Newell was fine today, certainly not the issue

Gave away a honking penalty. Who swings their leg wildly like that in the box?


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[B.H.F.C]

I’ve not seen it back but it looked at the time like Levitt was most culpable. He was knackered and desperate for someone to take his runner off him but there wasn’t anyone and instead of stopping them in their own half they seemed to have freedom to push up that park. Not seen it back though.

At the time I thought it was a ****show from the moment the cross left Newell’s boot.

Think what the last few posts show is that there were multiple players not doing their jobs. Which basically summed us up with the exception of a 15 minute spell.

[Ozyhibby]

Newell has had one successful season at Hibs. Under Jack Ross in a midfield with Gogic and Irvine. The rest of time our midfields have been honking.


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[jeffers]

I know it’s early days but Levitt is absolutely screaming Stevie Mallan to me.

Didn’t get the hype when he signed, definitely don’t get it now.

Me and you have been banging the drum about a more mobile, box to box, Docherty type midfielder. O’Hara would improve our midfield ten fold imo.

I like him. You could be right but he’s not fit yet so it’s definitely early days as you say.

[B.H.F.C]

The more I think about it, the more I’m absolutely baffled by us starting our first league game with that midfield three.

It just makes absolutely no sense at all. Newell playing further up the park towards the end of last season massively improved his performances. Then today, it was like going back in time to him pissing about in front of the defence during that first half.

We also seem to have signed Levitt with no apparent idea of how to use him. It’s a real shame because he is absolutely a player but he’ll just end up morphing in to the rest of them where we’re collectively ineffective if we’re not careful.

[Tyler Durden]

Gave away a honking penalty. Who swings their leg wildly like that in the box?


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Seeing it back, it’s never a penalty. For the ref to look at the replays and give that is infuriating. Would not happen in England where they’ve given guidance that contact does not equal a foul.

In real time I could understand it being given but via VAR…. WTF

[JohnM1875]

Seeing it back, it’s never a penalty. For the ref to look at the replays and give that is infuriating. Would not happen in England where they’ve given guidance that contact does not equal a foul.

In real time I could understand it being given but via VAR…. WTF

Eh? It's 100% a penalty. There's contact that makes the player lose balance. It should've been given by the ref never mind going to var.

[CapitalGreen]

Seeing it back, it’s never a penalty. For the ref to look at the replays and give that is infuriating. Would not happen in England where they’ve given guidance that contact does not equal a foul.

In real time I could understand it being given but via VAR…. WTF

It was an awful attempt to win the ball in the box and he’s only got himself to blame that the ref had something to review on VAR. Not long after he made another awful attempt at a tackle on the edge of the box giving Saints a free kick in a really dangerous position.

[Leith Green]

The more I think about it, the more I’m absolutely baffled by us starting our first league game with that midfield three.

It just makes absolutely no sense at all. Newell playing further up the park towards the end of last season massively improved his performances. Then today, it was like going back in time to him pissing about in front of the defence during that first half.

We also seem to have signed Levitt with no apparent idea of how to use him. It’s a real shame because he is absolutely a player but he’ll just end up morphing in to the rest of them where we’re collectively ineffective if we’re not careful.


Exactly.. Levitt looks like he has been signed to play the tippy tappy , slowing the game down role that we seem determined to mould every midfield player into. Its like we have made a clear decision to avoid creativity , drive , power from our midfield.. I honestly cant believe we are back with the same midfield from when jack ross was sacked , surely someone somewhere looks at that and thinks holy **** , we need to sort this… ? Or so you would think anyway..!

[Tyler Durden]

Eh? It's 100% a penalty. There's contact that makes the player lose balance. It should've been given by the ref never mind going to var.

The contact is not enough to make him lose balance. He’s went down looking for it.

Again, I could understand if the ref gave it in real time. To watch slow mo’s and still award it, is not right.

As I said. In England the refs consider a threshold of contact. The fact that there is contact should not automatically make it a foul. The ref had a good view and there was no need for VAR to intervene. The Scottish VAR approach is a farce

[JohnM1875]

The contact is not enough to make him lose balance. He’s went down looking for it.

Again, I could understand if the ref gave it in real time. To watch slow mo’s and still award it, is not right.

As I said. In England the refs consider a threshold of contact. The fact that there is contact should not automatically make it a foul. The ref had a good view and there was no need for VAR to intervene. The Scottish VAR approach is a farce

https://twitter.com/hibsclass/status/1688195356297703424?s=46&t=gcZgP6XopuFm2hG9y0AX3g

That is absolutely enough to knock him off balance.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

Eh? It's 100% a penalty. There's contact that makes the player lose balance. It should've been given by the ref never mind going to var.

Couldn't believe when the referee showed no interest until VAR brought it to his attention, was right in front of me and was a clear penalty.

[jeffers]

Couldn't believe when the referee showed no interest until VAR brought it to his attention, was right in front of me and was a clear penalty.

Thought from my seat it looked a pen. Watched it again and looks a pen still to me.

[CapitalGreen]

Today was the 14th occasion we have started with a midfield 3 of Newell, Campbell and JDH.

Wins 3
Draws 4
Losses 7

The last time that starting midfield 3 won a game was the 1-0 win against Dundee under David Gray in December 2021.

[Leith Green]

Today was the 14th occasion we have started with a midfield 3 of Newell, Campbell and JDH.

Wins 3
Draws 4
Losses 7

The last time that starting midfield 3 won a game was the 1-0 win against Dundee under David Gray in December 2021.



The reality is that we dont even need to know the statistics , it’s glaringly obvious that a midfield 3 of newell, jdh , and campbell is dire and lacking so many qualities.. should have been sorted a longtime ago.

[J-C]

I like him. You could be right but he’s not fit yet so it’s definitely early days as you say.

Why is he not fit yet? He's been here a month now and has only missed the Edinburgh City friendly, how long does it take to get up to bloody speed ffs.

[BILLYHIBS]

Always liked the boy O’Hara from St Mirren

Bossed our three first half and added a goal and an assist without breaking sweat

Now their Captain so will take something to prise him away

[norhfc]

Exactly.. Levitt looks like he has been signed to play the tippy tappy , slowing the game down role that we seem determined to mould every midfield player into. Its like we have made a clear decision to avoid creativity , drive , power from our midfield.. I honestly cant believe we are back with the same midfield from when jack ross was sacked , surely someone somewhere looks at that and thinks holy **** , we need to sort this… ? Or so you would think anyway..!

It’s the slow play that infuriates me, when the opposition inevitably get the ball back the pace suddenly picks up and we look so pedestrian. Noticeable for me yesterday the St Mirren players were on their toes while we seemed so flat footed and slow. A huge problem from last season and still here this season.

[Smartie]

It’s the slow play that infuriates me, when the opposition inevitably get the ball back the pace suddenly picks up and we look so pedestrian. Noticeable for me yesterday the St Mirren players were on their toes while we seemed so flat footed and slow. A huge problem from last season and still here this season.

Tbh that was the biggest thing for me - the sharpness, in and out of possession.

They looked ready to play, we looked like it was still pre season and we were working on our fitness.

That’s before you get anywhere near the manager, tactics or personnel.

But then about an hour in we seem to step it up to where it needs to be?

Weird.

[WestStandWillie]

Another season of JDH, Campbell and Newell ain’t one I want to see.

Jeggo, Levitt/Campbell and Newell however

[jeffers]

Why is he not fit yet? He's been here a month now and has only missed the Edinburgh City friendly, how long does it take to get up to bloody speed ffs.

Injured/concussion earlier in preseason means he’s behind the others in terms of fitness.

[WeeRussell]

Another season of JDH, Campbell and Newell ain’t one I want to see.

Jeggo, Levitt/Campbell and Newell however

I don’t think changing Jeggo for JDH is going to suddenly answer our problems.

[B.H.F.C]

Injured/concussion earlier in preseason means he’s behind the others in terms of fitness.

Levitt will be a player for us in time, if used correctly.

Biggest concern is that Johnson doesn’t know how he wants to use him.

[easty]

I don’t think changing Jeggo for JDH is going to suddenly answer our problems.

You give up a lot of quality on the ball taking out JDH for Jeggo, but I still think it's the right move.

I'm not interested in some kind of mythical rotation in midfield where everyone does a bit of everything. Get that in the bin. Get the basics right before trying to get us doing something that the players aren't capable of.

A sitting midfielder, an annoying wee dick of a player who closes people down, offers the defence some protection, and who wins the ball and plays it short to Newell/Levitt. Don't over-complicate it.

I was happy to see Gogic leave Hibs, I thought we could do better than him, he was nae good with the ball. Gave it away far too much, but we've not replaced what we had with him.

[LewysGot2]

Injured/concussion earlier in preseason means he’s behind the others in terms of fitness.

Concussed in Dundee Uniteds first preseason training session. Think LJ said he missed 3 weeks :agree:

[superfurryhibby]

The failure to improve the midfield was so obvious yesterday.

Levitt-take into account that he has missed a fair bit of training. A lot seems to rest on him as the catalyst for a more dynamic midfield.

Whatever the merits of each individual that played in midfield yesterday, I found it pretty appalling that we were starting with a trio that have been shown to be lacking so often in the past
When you consider what we had competing for central midfield starts, it's really not good enough.


Levitt
Jeggo
Newell
JDH
Campbell

[B.H.F.C]

You give up a lot of quality on the ball taking out JDH for Jeggo, but I still think it's the right move.

I'm not interested in some kind of mythical rotation in midfield where everyone does a bit of everything. Get that in the bin. Get the basics right before trying to get us doing something that the players aren't capable of.

A sitting midfielder, an annoying wee dick of a player who closes people down, offers the defence some protection, and who wins the ball and plays it short to Newell/Levitt. Don't over-complicate it.

I was happy to see Gogic leave Hibs, I thought we could do better than him, he was nae good with the ball. Gave it away far too much, but we've not replaced what we had with him.

I’m not really sure we’d be losing much quality taking JDH out. He doesn’t get on the ball and influence games nearly enough. Yesterday another example of a game just passing him by.

The thing I find weird is that at the tail end of last season we regularly had Newell, JDH, Campbell and Jeggo available. It was two plus Jeggo and whilst not perfect we were better for it.

To then go back to what didn’t work previously baffles me.

[easty]

I’m not really sure we’d be losing much quality taking JDH out. He doesn’t get on the ball and influence games nearly enough. Yesterday another example of a game just passing him by.

The thing I find weird is that at the tail end of last season we regularly had Newell, JDH, Campbell and Jeggo available. It was two plus Jeggo and whilst not perfect we were better for it.

To then go back to what didn’t work previously baffles me.

I'm not a JDH fan at all, but I can see he's a more technically gifted player than Jeggo or Campbell. If you could take Campbells attitude and JDH's ability, you'd have a decent player between them :greengrin

[Ronniekirk]

Levitt will be a player for us in time, if used correctly.

Biggest concern is that Johnson doesn’t know how he wants to use him.
Which would beg the question why sign him in the first place then ?

[cabbageandribs1875]

I know it’s early days but Levitt is absolutely screaming Stevie Mallan to me.

Didn’t get the hype when he signed, definitely don’t get it now.

Me and you have been banging the drum about a more mobile, box to box, Docherty type midfielder. O’Hara would improve our midfield ten fold imo.


this :agree: i never watch football highlights from any other sides so admittedly i'd only ever saw Levitt play once, against us, so when we signed him(with competition) i've looked for the comments from others on how good/bad he was with Dundee United, i've yet to see what all the fuss was about in signing him but it's not even a handful of games in yet, lots have commented on how he's not being played in the correct position but i have no idea what his best position is so i'm fine with LJ deciding on that one, but after watching JC and AD subbed after just 26 mins of a game because they were playing so bad in the chosen position picked by LJ it's then perfectly possible Levitt is not in the correct position either. still plenty of time i hope

[Ozyhibby]

Whatever Jeggo’s limitations, our results were better when he was in the team.
He’s nowhere near what we need but better than the other three at stopping teams cruising through our midfield.
We have a real blind spot just now for signing players who work off the ball to stop other teams playing.


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[LeithMike]

Whatever Jeggo’s limitations, our results were better when he was in the team.
He’s nowhere near what we need but better than the other three at stopping teams cruising through our midfield.
We have a real blind spot just now for signing players who work off the ball to stop other teams playing.


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Agree. We’re not good enough to play without a proper defensive player in midfield (although think JDH is best in that role too).

What LJ was thinking of buying Levitt to play as a 6, I do not know. Even the best teams play with a proper destroyer there. Man City have Rodri, Liverpool Fabinho, etc. let’s give Levitt a shot further up the park before we destroy his confidence.

I’d actually go with Jeggo, Levitt and Campbell to try and get some energy and drive. Campbell is the player who can get closest to our forwards.


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[Allant1981]

Agree. We’re not good enough to play without a proper defensive player in midfield (although think JDH is best in that role too).

What LJ was thinking of buying Levitt to play as a 6, I do not know. Even the best teams play with a proper destroyer there. Man City have Rodri, Liverpool Fabinho, etc. let’s give Levitt a shot further up the park before we destroy his confidence.

I’d actually go with Jeggo, Levitt and Campbell to try and get some energy and drive. Campbell is the player who can get closest to our forwards.


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Why play Levitt further up when he doesn't play there?

[LeithMike]

Why play Levitt further up when he doesn't play there?

Because his attributes might suit that position better?


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[K-Zazu]

Why play Levitt further up when he doesn't play there?

But everyone on here was making him out to be Scott Allan mark 2?

[eastmainsmsh]

Is The problem that they are all too similar ? and hesitant down to LJ instructions

[J-C]

Injured/concussion earlier in preseason means he’s behind the others in terms of fitness.


:aok:

[Real Emerald]

But everyone on here was making him out to be Scott Allan mark 2?

He will never be a success playing just in front of the defence with our midfield, if that’s where he plays then he’s not the player we should have been paying big money for. He’s completely ineffective playing there with our current players.

[Allant1981]

He will never be a success playing just in front of the defence with our midfield, if that’s where he plays then he’s not the player we should have been paying big money for. He’s completely ineffective playing there with our current players.

He has played almost his whole career either as a DM or central, not sure people think he is an attacking midfielder

[Real Emerald]

He has played almost his whole career either as a DM or central, not sure people think he is an attacking midfielder

I never said he didn’t, I said he won’t be effective there in our team. If we were paying a lot of money for a midfielder it should have been spent on a creative attacking midfielder. We really didn’t need another midfielder that sits deep.

[ancient hibee]

He has played almost his whole career either as a DM or central, not sure people think he is an attacking midfielder

Shouldn’t a DM look as if he knows how to tackle or even jockey a player?

[The Modfather]

Agree. We’re not good enough to play without a proper defensive player in midfield (although think JDH is best in that role too).

What LJ was thinking of buying Levitt to play as a 6, I do not know. Even the best teams play with a proper destroyer there. Man City have Rodri, Liverpool Fabinho, etc. let’s give Levitt a shot further up the park before we destroy his confidence.

I’d actually go with Jeggo, Levitt and Campbell to try and get some energy and drive. Campbell is the player who can get closest to our forwards.


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Agree with this, Jeggo, Levitt & Campbell probably the best combination of very limited options.

Jeggo doing the dirty side, Levitt doing the Newell role (but hopefully adding more goals and assists from open play) and somehow have Campbell generally stay away from play but come to life when Youan & Boyle have it out wide and arrive in the box late.

Still say sell anyone in the midfield we can get money for (likely Newell & Campbell) and use it for for the box to box player and creative player.

[Smartie]

Agree with this, Jeggo, Levitt & Campbell probably the best combination of very limited options.

Jeggo doing the dirty side, Levitt doing the Newell role (but hopefully adding more goals and assists from open play) and somehow have Campbell generally stay away from play but come to life when Youan & Boyle have it out wide and arrive in the box late.

Still say sell anyone in the midfield we can get money for (likely Newell & Campbell) and use it for for the box to box player and creative player.

My issue with that is that it effectively leaves us a man short for much of the game.

Jeggo, Newell, Levitt for me.

[The Modfather]

My issue with that is that it effectively leaves us a man short for much of the game.

Jeggo, Newell, Levitt for me.

A fair point. My concern would be Newell & Levit doing the same role, and neither running ahead of the ball or getting into the box. There’s more cons than pros whatever midfield lineup anyone come up with. A depressing, but entirely predictable, position to be in.

[sauzeelegod]

Described as an attacking midfielder when he signed for Dundee Utd.

https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/7365/DYLAN-LEVITT-JOINS-DUNDEE-UNITED.html

[LeithMike]

Described as an attacking midfielder when he signed for Dundee Utd.

https://www.dundeeunitedfc.co.uk/news/7365/DYLAN-LEVITT-JOINS-DUNDEE-UNITED.html

Yeah, he’s not limited to a holding player as was evident when Jeggo came on yesterday. Looks to have a good turn of pace too. Get him playing all over.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Smartie]

A fair point. My concern would be Newell & Levit doing the same role, and neither running ahead of the ball or getting into the box. There’s more cons than pros whatever midfield lineup anyone come up with. A depressing, but entirely predictable, position to be in.

Absolutely.

And I don't think we've probably made enough of our inability to get adequate support up to Doidge for long periods of the game. It was a different story when he got ALF up there with him (VERY different) but neither Campbell when he was on, the wide players, Youan or any of the midfielders did an adequate job of it for an hour.

As you say, it's a mess. And I totally share your reservations regarding my choice of midfield.

[LeithMike]

Agree with this, Jeggo, Levitt & Campbell probably the best combination of very limited options.

Jeggo doing the dirty side, Levitt doing the Newell role (but hopefully adding more goals and assists from open play) and somehow have Campbell generally stay away from play but come to life when Youan & Boyle have it out wide and arrive in the box late.

Still say sell anyone in the midfield we can get money for (likely Newell & Campbell) and use it for for the box to box player and creative player.

I’m not a huge fan of Newell in the centre but do see he has attributes. Wide left allowing him to roam with Youan right and Boyle to come off bench is prob the best way.


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[MagicSwirlingShip]

I don’t think we have a side that fits a number 10. Play Levitt and Newell in the number 8 role with Jeggo behind. Campbell & JDH I’m afraid will have to sit on the bench

[MWHIBBIES]

Agree with this, Jeggo, Levitt & Campbell probably the best combination of very limited options.

Jeggo doing the dirty side, Levitt doing the Newell role (but hopefully adding more goals and assists from open play) and somehow have Campbell generally stay away from play but come to life when Youan & Boyle have it out wide and arrive in the box late.

Still say sell anyone in the midfield we can get money for (likely Newell & Campbell) and use it for for the box to box player and creative player.

Newell far and away our best midfielder. Cant drop him for the new shiny without merit

[CapitalGreen]

Newell far and away our best midfielder. Cant drop him for the new shiny without merit

The fact this is true should see everyone involved in our recent recruitment out of a job.

[MWHIBBIES]

The fact this is true should see everyone involved in our recent recruitment out of a job.

Dunno about that, unless you mean Joe is being let down playing with much poorer players, which is sadly the case.

3 midfielders as good at their jobs as Joe and we'd be absolutely laughing. Even yesterday he was fine in amongst pure mince from Campbell especially.

[Real Emerald]

Absolutely.

And I don't think we've probably made enough of our inability to get adequate support up to Doidge for long periods of the game. It was a different story when he got ALF up there with him (VERY different) but neither Campbell when he was on, the wide players, Youan or any of the midfielders did an adequate job of it for an hour.

As you say, it's a mess. And I totally share your reservations regarding my choice of midfield.

In all my years watching Hibs, we’ve really only been successful when we’ve had 2 up front. There will be exceptions but it’s really difficult trying to remember them.

[Paulie Walnuts]

The fact this is true should see everyone involved in our recent recruitment out of a job.

Kind of agree with this.

Newell is a good player, no doubting that. The fact there’s no debate really that he’s our best is poor though. He’s not that good that we should have nobody even particularly close to him.

As for Levitt, agree with alot of what has been said already. If he’s a deep lying playmaker then we’ve not spent our money where we needed to spend it. For all the shouts of ‘he’s a 6’ though, the DU fans watched him all last season and thought he was absolutely wasted there. From what we’ve seen so far he doesn’t look all that exciting for us there either, although I appreciate its very early days. I do think people have got carried away with bigging him up though because we beat hearts to him.

[Real Emerald]

Kind of agree with this.

Newell is a good player, no doubting that. The fact there’s no debate really that he’s our best is poor though. He’s not that good that we should have nobody even particularly close to him.

As for Levitt, agree with alot of what has been said already. If he’s a deep lying playmaker then we’ve not spent our money where we needed to spend it. For all the shouts of ‘he’s a 6’ though, the DU fans watched him all last season and thought he was absolutely wasted there. From what we’ve seen so far he doesn’t look all that exciting for us there either, although I appreciate its very early days. I do think people have got carried away with bigging him up though because we beat hearts to him.

I sit roughly on the halfway line in the East and when you look at the pitch at any given time there seems to be an imaginary circle on the pitch that our midfield is not allowed to enter. The huge centre mid area is almost always devoid of any Hibs player. It’s really weird.

[B.H.F.C]

Jeggo, Newell and Levitt would be my midfield.

Levitt will be a good player for us once he’s up to speed. Jeggo, for his faults, will let the other two play and give us a bit balance.

[Smartie]

In all my years watching Hibs, we’ve really only been successful when we’ve had 2 up front. There will be exceptions but it’s really difficult trying to remember them.

That's the way it's seemed to me too tbf.

Difficult to get a proper formation that allows for that these days though, and it's hard to fit our best current players into the alternatives.

That said - I think there's a compelling argument for "the return of the diamond" right now, which is probably preferable to the alternatives (like having a potent front three that we can't get the ball to, or a permanently isolated central striker).

[Mutu]

Jeggo, Newell and Levitt would be my midfield.

Levitt will be a good player for us once he’s up to speed. Jeggo, for his faults, will let the other two play and give us a bit balance.

This is where I'm at. Jeggo is extremely limited with the ball at his feet but he's positionally good, is tenacious and seems like he is a good influence. Think he has to play if we want Newell and Levitt in the same team.

Levitt is a bit of an odd signing though. Not really sure where he fits in.

[Bushwoof]

I'm not sure why we keep bringing in all these lightweight midfielders - even Jeggo isn't particularly big. What we need is a big evil bloke who goes around bullying the opposition. Even the big lad from Inter Escaldes who went off at half time was bossing our lot.

[theonlywayisup]

I sit roughly on the halfway line in the East and when you look at the pitch at any given time there seems to be an imaginary circle on the pitch that our midfield is not allowed to enter. The huge centre mid area is almost always devoid of any Hibs player. It’s really weird.

I'm going to keep a close eye on the midfield tonight to see if this is true :greengrin

As many have already stated on this thread, our midfield are too slow in getting the ball forward into space to create an attacking situation. Whether that be by them passing the ball into space or them driving forward themselves into space, as SJM used to do.

[ancient hibee]

When Newell pushed a nice ball to ALF in the lead up to our first goal I think it was his first meaningful forward pass of the day.I was very disappointed in his performance culminating in the dreadful lazy lob to the St.Mirren goalie.

[MWHIBBIES]

I'm not sure why we keep bringing in all these lightweight midfielders - even Jeggo isn't particularly big. What we need is a big evil bloke who goes around bullying the opposition. Even the big lad from Inter Escaldes who went off at half time was bossing our lot.

Or we could get guys who play football better than the opposition. What have Hibs ever won with a big evil bloke in midfield?

[raeburnhibs]

Or we could get guys who play football better than the opposition. What have Hibs ever won with a big evil bloke in midfield?

Yep, remember that wee midfielder N'Golo ****e, won a couple of things I believe

[raeburnhibs]

Yep, remember that wee midfielder N'Golo ****e, won a couple of things I believe

Thinks ****e is a 'bad word' stoopid website

[Since90+2]

Yep, remember that wee midfielder N'Golo ****e, won a couple of things I believe

****e doesn't fit that description at all. He was/is a phenomenal player. No idea how you've plucked his name.

[raeburnhibs]

****e doesn't fit that description at all. He was/is a phenomenal player. No idea how you've plucked his name.

either I'm missing your humour or you've completely misunderstood my point; maybe I'm being slow, it happens; ****e was the ultimate wee guy in midfield rather than this big evil bloke is what we need pish which I was responding to

[HoboHarry]

****e doesn't fit that description at all. He was/is a phenomenal player. No idea how you've plucked his name.
I think you have completely misunderstood the post. :greengrin

[Since452]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?

[Northernhibee]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?

Isn’t he the guy who plays for S****horpe United?

[Hibbyradge]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?

He's not big and he's not evil.

[CropleyWasGod]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?

Wee **** who doesn't play for ****nal.

(clue.... philosopher, first name Immanuel)

[Since90+2]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?

French midfielder who recently left Chelsea for Saudi Arabia.

[Since90+2]

either I'm missing your humour or you've completely misunderstood my point; maybe I'm being slow, it happens; ****e was the ultimate wee guy in midfield rather than this big evil bloke is what we need pish which I was responding to

Woosh moment for me.

[HoboHarry]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?
The site won't allow N'Golo's last name to show. It thinks it's a wee sweary word like used to describe fans of Sevco - you know, bigoted khants (similar anyway)

[nonshinyfinish]

Can somebody explain who ****e is please?

German philosopher. His book Critique of Pure Reason argued that a solely stats-based approach to football scouting is destined to fail.

[inglisavhibs]

Shouldn’t a DM look as if he knows how to tackle or even jockey a player?
As in the St Mirren 3rd goal.Not a great effort t9 stop the cross. He doesn’t look like he knows how to defend at all.

[Eyrie]

Wee **** who doesn't play for ****nal.

(clue.... philosopher, first name Immanuel)

That went completely over my Hegel.

[theonlywayisup]

Whilst this thread has been largely critical of our midfield, a huge special mention for Joe Newell. That display last night was up there with one of the best midfield displays seen at Easter Road, since SJM left the Hibees. Exceptional display by SJN.

[HIBS NUTS]

Great win last night, Joe Newell, was absolutely brilliant.

[theonlywayisup]

Surely we have to bring in a couple of decent midfielders. To start today with Jeggo and Campbell as the middle two shows how short we are in midfield. It's clear that Newell is our best midfielder by far and we need better to play alongside him. We need an upgrade on Jeggo, Campbell, Henderson & JDH, especially now that Levitt will be out for a few weeks.

[bordergreen]

Surely we have to bring in a couple of decent midfielders. To start today with Jeggo and Campbell as the middle two shows how short we are in midfield. It's clear that Newell is our best midfielder by far and we need better to play alongside him. We need an upgrade on Jeggo, Campbell, Henderson & JDH, especially now that Levitt will be out for a few weeks.

Agreed, I posted earlier on the transfer thread that we need two midfielders who have a bit of strength and presence. Too many teams play through us in the middle of the park. In turn, putting us under pressure at the back.

[B.H.F.C]

That’s twice already this season Campbell has been subbed early doors having been absolutely diabolical. If he’s not scoring he offers zero.

[Paulie Walnuts]

That’s twice already this season Campbell has been subbed early doors having been absolutely diabolical. If he’s not scoring he offers zero.

:agree:

As has been discussed before, if we got a decent bid for him then I’d bite their hand off. He’s a poor player who has a knack of getting goals. It’s a good knack to have, but it doesn’t make up for the rest of his play.

[Brightside]

That’s twice already this season Campbell has been subbed early doors having been absolutely diabolical. If he’s not scoring he offers zero.

He’s playing in the wrong position today tbh. He can’t play in a two. We get the most from him as a pressing 10. He’s not a ball player.

[JimBHibees]

That’s twice already this season Campbell has been subbed early doors having been absolutely diabolical. If he’s not scoring he offers zero.

Looks like he is struggling physically. He certainly isn't a centre mid in a two that is for sure. Done a shift for us on Thursday

[J-C]

That’s twice already this season Campbell has been subbed early doors having been absolutely diabolical. If he’s not scoring he offers zero.

:agree: Take away his goals and he actually offers very little, needs to be playing behind the striker to be effective.

[B.H.F.C]

He’s playing in the wrong position today tbh. He can’t play in a two. We get the most from him as a pressing 10. He’s not a ball player.

If he’s not capable of playing in a two against Raith Rovers it’s just because he’s not very good IMO. A competent midfielder should be capable of doing that. He played with Doyle-Hayes and Newell behind him against St Mirren and didn’t even last a half.

[theonlywayisup]

To be honest, I could have gone back to any thread where the OP has started a thread highlighting our deficiencies in midfield. Just searched and we've had threads started on:

24th November 2021 Midfield (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?354957-Midfield&highlight=midfield)
19th December 2021 Midfield (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?355528-Midfield&highlight=midfield)
21st January 2022 Midfield (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?355951-Midfield&highlight=midfield)
1st February 2022 Centre of Midfield (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?356154-Centre-of-Midfield&highlight=midfield)
14th July 2022 Midfield (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?358274-Midfield&highlight=midfield)
27th August Whole new midfield needed (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?359006-Whole-new-midfield-needed)
28th August Midfield 3 (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?359022-Midfield-3)
17th September Midfield (hibs.net) (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?359298-Midfield)

I'm not a footballing expert, unlike the various managers and coaches we've had in recent seasons. But they must be blind if they can't see our major problem is in midfield. I've not read these threads. but I'm sure that the comments are consistent - too slow, not creative enough, lacking quality etc etc.

Today, like last week, it's pretty obvious we've nothing in midfield. Like I said, I'm not a footballing expert, but can we no find a manager who knows how to fix it.

Another transfer window has passed and yet again we fail to address what is clear to many that our midfield isn't good enough.

So this season, we're going to rely on Newell, Campbell, JDH, Levitt and Jeggo, plus some of the younger rarely tested players. I'm really surprised at this.

[hibee1875]

I think we’ll see a fair bit of Rudi Molotnikov this season. Definitely has the physic to step up

[JimBHibees]

I think we’ll see a fair bit of Rudi Molotnikov this season. Definitely has the physic to step up

Hope so was impressed with his short cameo on Thursday. Would start him on Sunday

[flash]

Going by recent appearances think Delferierre could turn into a decent option.

[HIBS NUTS]

Our young midfielder, murray Aiken who was the captain of our fantastic under 18 last year.
Has played every week in the centre for Airdrie this season.
Very physical young player.

[theonlywayisup]

We desperately need some better quality midfielders. Yes, we missed Super Joe, but Jeggo and Levitt are not the answer. Clear lack of creativity and directness. We need better and it's been clear for ages.

[Chorley Hibee]

We desperately need some better quality midfielders. Yes, we missed Super Joe, but Jeggo and Levitt are not the answer. Clear lack of creativity and directness. We need better and it's been clear for ages.

How many Summer/January windows has that been now that the obvious has been ignored?

It wouldn't surprise me in the least to see it ignored this January either.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

We desperately need some better quality midfielders. Yes, we missed Super Joe, but Jeggo and Levitt are not the answer. Clear lack of creativity and directness. We need better and it's been clear for ages.

Levitt must be one of the most disappointing signings I can think of, based on the relatively high hopes that we had when he signed.

[A Hi-Bee]

Levitt must be one of the most disappointing signings I can think of, based on the relatively high hopes that we had when he signed.

Naw, Liam Craig was the one for me, Levitt is a reasonable player perhaps just no for us.

[The Modfather]

Levitt must be one of the most disappointing signings I can think of, based on the relatively high hopes that we had when he signed.

To think Johnson thought Levitt, and the type of midfielder he is, was the sole answer to 5 or 6 failed transfer windows in a row in to fix the midfield.

[King conrad]

Our young midfielder, murray Aiken who was the captain of our fantastic under 18 last year.
Has played every week in the centre for Airdrie this season.
Very physical young player.

He's recently had a bad injury and out for the season I've heard.

[truehibernian]

It’s an area where we’ve seen by far the worst recruitment in my opinion. All about building a balanced midfield. It lacks height and physicality, it lacks a creative 10, and it lacks a natural left sided player. There’s not enough diversity of styles, every midfielder we have is ‘safe’ and uninspiring unless Joe plays forward and is on his game, which fortunately he has been this season so far. They all fall into the bracket of conservative bland midfielders for me. Not one gets me excited on the ball.

[Unseen work]

To get players to play in a centre 2 in this formation will take real money to get them.

There’s not many players that are physically good enough, comfortable on the ball, creative, composed and with an attacking threat but good defensively going about.

We almost need the complete midfielder

[theonlywayisup]

It’s an area where we’ve seen by far the worst recruitment in my opinion. All about building a balanced midfield. It lacks height and physicality, it lacks a creative 10, and it lacks a natural left sided player. There’s not enough diversity of styles, every midfielder we have is ‘safe’ and uninspiring unless Joe plays forward and is on his game, which fortunately he has been this season so far. They all fall into the bracket of conservative bland midfielders for me. Not one gets me excited on the ball.

Yes, I fully agree.

I recall listening to Alan Preston after Hibs had won the Derby at Easter Road. He said, in his opinion, to win the Derby you need to dominate the midfield. That night, the Hibs midfield won every battle and also had the creativity to be a threat. I don't see it with our current midfield. We've forwards who have the speed and skill to take chances, but a midfield who lack the creativity to provide them.

[J-C]

To get players to play in a centre 2 in this formation will take real money to get them.

There’s not many players that are physically good enough, comfortable on the ball, creative, composed and with an attacking threat but good defensively going about.

We almost need the complete midfielder

Agree, Jeggo is a decent DM but poor with the ball, Levitt is weak in the defensive side but decent with the ball, you need 2 players who can tackle, pass and stay calm on the ball and there's not many of them knocking about.

[truehibernian]

To get players to play in a centre 2 in this formation will take real money to get them.

There’s not many players that are physically good enough, comfortable on the ball, creative, composed and with an attacking threat but good defensively going about.

We almost need the complete midfielder

We don’t need a complete midfield, what we need is a physical player with height and drive, a natural lefty, and a creative 10. Having Levitt, Newell, Campbell and Jeggo compliment the blend, and provide greater flexibility when there’s injuries and suspensions etc. to any of that area.

[The Modfather]

To get players to play in a centre 2 in this formation will take real money to get them.

There’s not many players that are physically good enough, comfortable on the ball, creative, composed and with an attacking threat but good defensively going about.

We almost need the complete midfielder

That type of midfielder must grow on trees in the elite clubs’ academies. We could probably get that kind of midfielder on loan who won’t get near making the grade but who is still well above our level. Maybe once in a while able to sign them as part of putting them in the shop window again for a move further up the chain.

I think we could do better at signing players who fail to make the grade at elite clubs, like Dundee did with Kamara, particularly given the better chance we have given the kind of money we can now spend.

[Unseen work]

We don’t need a complete midfield, what we need is a physical player with height and drive, a natural lefty, and a creative 10. Having Levitt, Newell, Campbell and Jeggo compliment the blend, and provide greater flexibility when there’s injuries and suspensions etc. to any of that area.

But if we have just one of those styles you describe the balance will most likely be off in a central 2 - that’s my main point

[Smartie]

To get players to play in a centre 2 in this formation will take real money to get them.

There’s not many players that are physically good enough, comfortable on the ball, creative, composed and with an attacking threat but good defensively going about.

We almost need the complete midfielder

I agree with this 100%.

A couple of John McGinns and this works. John McGinns don’t grow on trees.

Instead we’re left trying to create a unit out of Newells, Jeggos and Levitts, most of us being agreed that the combination of the 3 of them would be perfectly adequate.

[truehibernian]

But if we have just one of those styles you describe the balance will most likely be off in a central 2 - that’s my main point

I agree, and i posted earlier, there’s absolutely no teams outwith the Old Firm away I’d ever want to play a central pair of defensive 6’s like we did today - shows the lack of depth and admittedly a stubborn approach by Monty. I don’t disagree with you 👍

[TrinityHFC]

I agree with this 100%.

A couple of John McGinns and this works. John McGinns don’t grow on trees.

Instead we’re left trying to create a unit out of Newells, Jeggos and Levitts, most of us being agreed that the combination of the 3 of them would be perfectly adequate.

Agree and a front 3 of Vente, Boyle and Youan would also be good.

As a club we just haven’t connected player recruitment and manager recruitment very well. The current manager does not match the good players that we have recruited in terms of style. I don’t think he’s a great match for the type of attacking football that we keep saying we want to implement.

[#2 Double Tap]

Agree and a front 3 of Vente, Boyle and Youan would also be good.

As a club we just haven’t connected player recruitment and manager recruitment very well. The current manager does not match the good players that we have recruited in terms of style. I don’t think he’s a great match for the type of attacking football that we keep saying we want to implement.

lenny was that guy, but the ship has sailed, so no point in me moaning about it.....haha

[JohnM1875]

Levitt and Jeggo are nowhere near good enough. Both need replaced in the upcoming window.

Really disappointing as thought Levitt was going to be a game changer for us.

[LaMotta]

If you are a goal down in a game you have very little chance of getting back in the game with Jimmy Jeggo in your midfield.

[WeeRussell]

lenny was that guy, but the ship has sailed, so no point in me moaning about it.....haha

Lennon singled out and dropped the best goalscorer we had, and then threw a chair at the next one after that.

Not sure he was the man to get the attacking bite we need.

[Chipper1875]

Levitt and Jeggo are nowhere near good enough. Both need replaced in the upcoming window.

Really disappointing as thought Levitt was going to be a game changer for us.

Another transfer window we have failed to improve the midfield

[JimBHibees]

Levitt and Jeggo are nowhere near good enough. Both need replaced in the upcoming window.

Really disappointing as thought Levitt was going to be a game changer for us.

Too early to right off Levitt very talented footballer

[WeeRussell]

Too early to right off Levitt very talented footballer

100%

[Smartie]

If you are a goal down in a game you have very little chance of getting back in the game with Jimmy Jeggo in your midfield.

In a 442 I'd still have him in the team before most of our midfielders, certainly Levitt.

Newell's the only one we have that's close to being able to cope in this formation imo, if he's fit and paired with Jeggo then I don't think that's too bad a combination.

[Smartie]

Too early to right off Levitt very talented footballer

He is, but he hasn't got what it takes to play this role in this formation.

If we stick with Levitt in a 442 then we can write off any chances we thought Hibs had of finishing top 3.

There's definitely a role for him but I just don't see him being a success under our current manager.

[JohnM1875]

Too early to right off Levitt very talented footballer

You know what, I’m being too harsh. He’s just in to double figures for league appearances.

Just hope the form picks up soon, starting this Saturday.

[Golden Bear]

Too early to right off Levitt very talented footballer

Correct, especially when he's just returned after an injury. I remember when he signed he said that he was looking forward to playing in an attacking midfield role as he thought that was his best position. Maybe some day eh !!!

[Mikey_1875]

I think when in top form Newell and Levitt are a great midfield pairing and fitting of a third place team. The problem is Levitt has been very inconsistent and when he is bad he looks awful because his running and defensive work aren’t too clever. We know Newell can come and go but he has been a key player for a while now.

It is an area we need to improve on in the window as the combination at St J didn’t work and there can’t be any guarantees made on Levitt at the moment. I like Jeggo as well but as others have pointed out we are missing that spark or McGinn factor in there at times. A three in midfield with the current squad still wouldn’t be the perfect balance as it stands imo.

[LaMotta]

In a 442 I'd still have him in the team before most of our midfielders, certainly Levitt.

Newell's the only one we have that's close to being able to cope in this formation imo, if he's fit and paired with Jeggo then I don't think that's too bad a combination.

Newell and Levitt playing together coincided with 2 of our best performances of the season v Luzern, before Levitt got injured in Switzerland. Levitt and Newell together also coincided with our best run in the league with the 4 wins out of 5.

We also shipped far more more goals per game when Jeggo played in CM instead of Levitt (despite the idea that he helps us defensively).

I think we can both agree though after Saturday's shambles that Newell is vital for us - as you allude to.

[Baader]

Quite a problem to solve. The balance of midfield and attack just isn't right but Monty's rigidity and stubbornness when it comes to a formation isn't helping

[Forza Fred]

The possible solution is…..Josh Nisbet!

[Springbank]

Too early to right off Levitt very talented footballer

With his lack of workrate, application, desire and influence, I would say we can only afford to play one of Levitt / Youan / Boyle and certainly not all 3 at once, in games v likes of Ross County away & St Johnstone away

Of course, we'd all love Levitt to prove us wrong, on the workrate, application, desire and influence points.

Over to you Dylan...

[JimBHibees]

The possible solution is…..Josh Nisbet!

You heard Hibs are in for him. Looks a very good player but obviously small.

[JimBHibees]

With his lack of workrate, application, desire and influence, I would say we can only afford to play one of Levitt / Youan / Boyle and certainly not all 3 at once, in games v likes of Ross County away & St Johnstone away

Of course, we'd all love Levitt to prove us wrong, on the workrate, application, desire and influence points.

Over to you Dylan...

Think his ability on the ball is excellent up to the player but also his coach to get the best out of him.

[SHODAN]

Said this before. In my time as a Hibs fan we've had two periods where we had an objectively good midfield: 2004-07 (Brown, Thomson, Beuzelin, Zemmama etc) and 2015-18 (McGinn, McGeouch, Allan, Bartley etc). In the intervening periods we've had nothing but complete *****. It is not the exception, it's the rule.

The good news is that if historical precedent is anything to go by we're due a non-**** midfield in a couple years or so - not long to go now!

[Bridge hibs]

You heard Hibs are in for him. Looks a very good player but obviously small.

Mickey Weir was only one inch taller than Nisbet and he had a decent career 😄

[J-C]

Mickey Weir was only one inch taller than Nisbet and he had a decent career 😄

Wee Jimmy Johnstone was only 5'4" too and one of the best wingers I've ever seen in my 65 years on this planet.

[Bridge hibs]

Wee Jimmy Johnstone was only 5'4" too and one of the best wingers I've ever seen in my 65 years on this planet.

Same height as the laddie Lamptay who plays for Brighton

[ancient hibee]

Wee Jimmy Johnstone was only 5'4" too and one of the best wingers I've ever seen in my 65 years on this planet.

And received the sort of tackles that would have present day players heading for the nearest exit.

[#2 Double Tap]

Lennon singled out and dropped the best goalscorer we had, and then threw a chair at the next one after that.

Not sure he was the man to get the attacking bite we need.

sure he had/has his faults, but he was better than everybody we have had since, he wasnt perfect but really was a level above the others.......

[Forza Fred]

You heard Hibs are in for him. Looks a very good player but obviously small.

No rumours no, but apart from size would seem logical ‘affordable’ candidate.

After another rousing performance last weekend , his new coach….the former MK Dons manager went on the telly and said he could definitely play in England.

He would certainly inject energy into the side….and there are just as big ugly defenders in Oz as he would face in the SPL.

[JimBHibees]

No rumours no, but apart from size would seem logical ‘affordable’ candidate.

After another rousing performance last weekend , his new coach….the former MK Dons manager went on the telly and said he could definitely play in England.

He would certainly inject energy into the side….and there are just as big ugly defenders in Oz as he would face in the SPL.

Cheers Fred hope we are in for him.

[JammyDoidger]

Levitt and Jeggo are nowhere near good enough. Both need replaced in the upcoming window.

Really disappointing as thought Levitt was going to be a game changer for us.

If we are only going to play with 2 centre mids then I'd be quite happy to lose both of them in January and bring in someone with more rounded. Jeggo and Levitt look no good in a 2, shame as I thought Levitt would be class for us but he's being used all wrong. Same with Youan i wouldn't mind seeing him leave us he's going to be used the way he is atm, this shape just isn't suited to our best players.

[JimBHibees]

If we are only going to play with 2 centre mids then I'd be quite happy to lose both of them in January and bring in someone with more rounded. Jeggo and Levitt look no good in a 2, shame as I thought Levitt would be class for us but he's being used all wrong. Same with Youan i wouldn't mind seeing him leave us he's going to be used the way he is atm, this shape just isn't suited to our best players.

Jeggo and Levit have both looked decent beside Joe

[tonyrougier123]

Zinédine machach would be a strong addition. Melbourne victory attacking midfielder

[worcesterhibby]

Zinédine machach would be a strong addition. Melbourne victory attacking midfielder

Everyone is suddenly crazy about A-league players ! Australia is the new StMirren !

[Bridge hibs]

Everyone is suddenly crazy about A-league players ! Australia is the new StMirren !

If they are good players and would improve the team why not ?

[JammyDoidger]

Jeggo and Levit have both looked decent beside Joe

I'm going to have to disagree on that, I think we are stifling Levitt atm. Watching his highlights for Dundee Utd and some of his goals etc, I was excited about his signing, he's not produced anywhere near that for us due to playing so deep. He's got so much more ability than what we are seeing. Jeggo is bang average, I'd rather we had someone in there that can drive us forward and do a bit more than what Jeggo does.

[Chorley Hibee]

I'm going to have to disagree on that, I think we are stifling Levitt atm. Watching his highlights for Dundee Utd and some of his goals etc, I was excited about his signing, he's not produced anywhere near that for us due to playing so deep. He's got so much more ability than what we are seeing. Jeggo is bang average, I'd rather we had someone in there that can drive us forward and do a bit more than what Jeggo does.

Completely agree.

Levitt had 11 goals in 62 appearances for Dundee Utd, and always looked a decent attacking threat (My Dundee Utd supporting pal certainly raved about him).

He's looked anything but that in a Hibs strip, and looks yet another player hampered by his position and our style of play.

[JimBHibees]

I'm going to have to disagree on that, I think we are stifling Levitt atm. Watching his highlights for Dundee Utd and some of his goals etc, I was excited about his signing, he's not produced anywhere near that for us due to playing so deep. He's got so much more ability than what we are seeing. Jeggo is bang average, I'd rather we had someone in there that can drive us forward and do a bit more than what Jeggo does.

Disagree both have been good wouldn't disagree about Levitt being more of an attacking threat.

[Ozyhibby]

Still needs surgery. Hearts controlled possession tonight. We probably matched them in chances but the controlled the ball.


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[JammyDoidger]

What midfield?

[LaMotta]

What midfield?

:agree:pathetic

[blackpoolhibs]

What midfield?

Got the runaround all night, **** this 4-4-2 and let's at least match up in there and give us a chance of competing.

[Ozyhibby]

Got the runaround all night, **** this 4-4-2 and let's at least match up in there and give us a chance of competing.

Are we really 4-4-2 when Vente is playing midfield?
We are just really weak in the middle and have been for years now. It’s got a fair few managers the sack now and Monty will be next if he ignores it in January.


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[Paulie Walnuts]

Got the runaround all night, **** this 4-4-2 and let's at least match up in there and give us a chance of competing.

Folk will be along to tell you formations don’t matter or some other nonsense but it’s getting beyond a joke now. This system is a shocker.

[NC1875]

We have a midfield ?

Everyone of them bar Newell are crap.

[GreenCastle]

Are we really 4-4-2 when Vente is playing midfield?
We are just really weak in the middle and have been for years now. It’s got a fair few managers the sack now and Monty will be next if he ignores it in January.


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If he sticks with 4-4-2 he will need to bring in better than Newell or Levitt.

Anything else or ignored and the team will struggle.

Saying that though if we keep conceding goals at the back doesn’t matter the rest of the team.

[supermcginn]

We have a midfield ?

Everyone of them bar Newell are crap.

To think we paid really good money for Levitt, he's miles away from what we needed. Weak, slow and timid.

[Unseen work]

To think we paid really good money for Levitt, he's miles away from what we needed. Weak, slow and timid.

I was a big fan of Levitt, still am however it’s becoming less most weeks.

But I genuinely felt embarassed for him today when Baningime skinned him, played a 1-2 and then dribbled past him like he was a little boy - leading to levittt trying a ridiculous foul which injured Campbell

[yonder1875]

We have a midfield ?

Everyone of them bar Newell are crap.

Pretty much.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

To think we paid really good money for Levitt, he's miles away from what we needed. Weak, slow and timid.


Offers nothing, timid sums him up.

[Real Emerald]

If he sticks with 4-4-2 he will need to bring in better than Newell or Levitt.

Anything else or ignored and the team will struggle.

Saying that though if we keep conceding goals at the back doesn’t matter the rest of the team.

Yep, 442 is fine if you have a decent midfield. Not having a decent midfield makes your attackers and defenders struggle. To be fair to the manager he had no one to choose from as we’ve not addressed the situation for years.

If he doesn’t address it, he’ll be gone soon too as 442 won’t work without a decent midfield. It so utterly depressing.

[Calidad]

I struggle to think of a single decent side who play 4-4-2, because unless you have an incredibly dynamic and hard working duo then you are invariably going to concede the midfield battle.

Play Newell and Levitt ahead of Jeggo (who I think is pretty ordinary) and we’ll actually start to get a hold of the ball again and maintain some degree of control over games. Our midfield doesn’t create anything, nor does it protect our defence. Newell and Levitt aren’t being correctly utilised.

[Smartie]

At the start of the season when Jack Ross got sacked, the midfield 3 of Newell, JDH and Magennis looked like we'd just about cracked it for the first time since McGinn, McGeouch and Allan left.

At pretty much all times since then (and between the McGinn team breaking up and that handful of games at that stage of that season) it's one shade of s**** or another.

This latest monstrosity is just that - a monstrosity. I didn't actually think that individually they were that bad tonight and a derby is always a difficult game but it just didn't cut it and the problems have been over many more games than just tonight's.

I'd take a bit of convincing that a pairing of Newell and Jeggo with Levitt in a more advanced position wouldn't be a significant upgrade on what we're currently trying but it looks like we'd rather try all sorts of alternatives (like having our main poacher dropping off and tanking about deep) rather than go for the option that appears to be staring us in the face.

The manager who cracks our midfield conundrum will be the the one who finally brings our next period of relative success to the club.

Until then...

[Basildon Hibs]

We've needed a couple of tough midfielders for years. Every year this seems to get ignored - **** knows why.

[Chorley Hibee]

At the start of the season when Jack Ross got sacked, the midfield 3 of Newell, JDH and Magennis looked like we'd just about cracked it for the first time since McGinn, McGeouch and Allan left.

At pretty much all times since then (and between the McGinn team breaking up and that handful of games at that stage of that season) it's one shade of s**** or another.

This latest monstrosity is just that - a monstrosity. I didn't actually think that individually they were that bad tonight and a derby is always a difficult game but it just didn't cut it and the problems have been over many more games than just tonight's.

I'd take a bit of convincing that a pairing of Newell and Jeggo with Levitt in a Moore advanced position wouldn't be a significant upgrade on what we're currently trying but it looks like we'd rather try all sorts of alternatives (like having our main poacher dropping off and tanking about deep) rather than go for the option that appears to be staring us in the face.

The manager who cracks our midfield conundrum will be the the one who finally brings our next period of relative success to the club.

Until then...

I've been an advocate of Levitt in a more pronounced forward role, and based upon his stats with Dundee Utd (11 goals in 62 appearances), we're criminally failing to play him in a position that suits his attributes.

I'm very good friends with an avid Dundee Utd fan, and he's of a similar opinion that the role we are currently playing him in is massively detrimental to both him and us.

[Trinity Hibee]

Levitt needs to move to a no. 10 role behind Vente. Boyle and youan out wide with Jeggo and newell in the middle. Newell and levitt are too similar to both play CM

[itslegaltender]

Joe Newell posted missing in a big game once more. The guy has managed to get 4 managers sacked so far. How he got MoM is completely bonkers to me.

[hibeerealist]

Levitt needs to move to a no. 10 role behind Vente. Boyle and youan out wide with Jeggo and newell in the middle. Newell and levitt are too similar to both play CM


If that does not equate toa 442 the NM is not interested,sadly.

[Trinity Hibee]

Joe Newell posted missing in a big game once more. The guy has managed to get 4 managers sacked so far. How he got MoM is completely bonkers to me.

One of the only players I’d have said did alright tonight

[Real Emerald]

Levitt needs to move to a no. 10 role behind Vente. Boyle and youan out wide with Jeggo and newell in the middle. Newell and levitt are too similar to both play CM

Going forward I don’t want to ever think about a midfield of Jeggo and Newell, it doesn’t work and it doesn’t work with Doyle-Hayes either. We need a midfield or at least a midfielder who imposes himself creating and going beyond the strikers, not another who constantly passes the ball back. Although our options are limited to zero with our squad.

[Unseen work]

Joe Newell posted missing in a big game once more. The guy has managed to get 4 managers sacked so far. How he got MoM is completely bonkers to me.

Newell got 4 managers sacked?

Quite impressive that.

Also a lie, but that’s besides the point.

[Ozyhibby]

Newell got 4 managers sacked?

Quite impressive that.

Also a lie, but that’s besides the point.

Harsh to blame him on his own but he has been part of a dreadful midfield for about 5 years now.


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[Paulie Walnuts]

Joe Newell posted missing in a big game once more. The guy has managed to get 4 managers sacked so far. How he got MoM is completely bonkers to me.

Our best player tonight imo.

[LewysGot2]

Our best player tonight imo.

Was given MotM. I'd have said Fish was but Joe was one of the pass marks from my seat.

[JohnM1875]

Was given MotM. I'd have said Fish was but Joe was one of the pass marks from my seat.

Newell, Fish and Jair were all contenders for me. Second half from Newell probably just edged it.

[penihibs]

What midfield ?

[Real Emerald]

Newell, Fish and Jair were all contenders for me. Second half from Newell probably just edged it.

What about Obita, I thought he had a really good game.

[OsloHibs]

I can't believe we're debating who was MOTM!!! I'd give to Sunshine. His dancing pre match was the best thing I seen on the pitch all night.

[WestStandWillie]

Newell performances are around 65% good, 35% poor.

Couple of times tonight we’ve had a throw in and Newell’s not paying attention. Have a wee stroll about the park to himself.

When he’s fully switched on, he’s one of the best in the squad.

[Bobby's Cinema]

Up until now I just don't see what Levitt offers us. For a guy with decent amount of first team football under his belt and capped for Wales expecting more of an impact to the side, but again I was calling for Jeggo far earlier tonight.

Middle to front in general we are not getting the best from our best players with the roles we are asking them to do and in some cases can't find a system that gets them on the park.

[Ozyhibby]

Up until now I just don't see what Levitt offers us. For a guy with decent amount of first team football under his belt and capped for Wales expecting more of an impact to the side, but again I was calling for Jeggo far earlier tonight.

Middle to front in general we are not getting the best from our best players with the roles we are asking them to do and in some cases can't find a system that gets them on the park.

We get bullied in midfield every week. Have done for years. We sign soft players.


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[ekhibee]

I can't believe we're debating who was MOTM!!! I'd give to Sunshine. His dancing pre match was the best thing I seen on the pitch all night.

This.

[easty]

We get bullied in midfield every week. Have done for years. We sign soft players.


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We weren’t bullied in midfield tonight. At all.

I wouldn’t argue that the midfield didn’t create enough, but I cannae think of us being bullied at any point.

[Real Emerald]

We weren’t bullied in midfield tonight. At all.

I wouldn’t argue that the midfield didn’t create enough, but I cannae think of us being bullied at any point.

We actually weren’t bullied in midfield, but they had greater numbers all game and we didn’t get going. My seat in the East is on halfway line and we constantly had no players in the middle of the park. That’s been the case for a good few seasons unfortunately.

[easty]

We actually weren’t bullied in midfield, but they had greater numbers all game and we didn’t get going. My seat in the East is on halfway line and we constantly had no players in the middle of the park. That’s been the case for a good few seasons unfortunately.

I thought first half their midfield were slightly on top, second half ours was.

We were done by a punt up the park and a Rocky brain fart in the end. Midfield totally bypassed.

[GreenCastle]

Ask any midfielder if they enjoy playing 3v2 and I’m pretty certain they say no as they have to do more running.

It also means the strikers need to often press more and Vente wastes a lot of energy doing this when ideally we need him higher up the pitch where he can score goals.

We didn’t get bullied last night but another player in there with drive and quality would have helped.

The lack of goals from central midfield also an issue - Newell has scored about 3 goals max a season. He has 9 goals in 129 games for Hibs and Levitt hasn’t scored yet. Mallan for example scored 20 goals in 95 games.

Doidge caused / created more when he came on in a short space of time then Levitt or Newell - different positions obviously but made something happen.

I’ve felt for a long time this team will never progress until we sign better than Newell - not saying we must get rid but he needs more quality around him. He can’t be the main guy centrally which he is.

He’s improved - great guy but we need better.

[J-C]

Newell got 4 managers sacked?

Quite impressive that.

Also a lie, but that’s besides the point.

Technically not wrong, brought in by Heckingbottom, followed by Ross, Maloney and Johnson.

[Hibernian Verse]

Technically not wrong, brought in by Heckingbottom, followed by Ross, Maloney and Johnson.

That’s some technicality. Wonder how many Boyle has seen off in his career.

[Eyrie]

That’s some technicality. Wonder how many Boyle has seen off in his career.

Or Stevenson.

Managers get sacked because overall performances aren't good enough, not because of one player.

[J-C]

That’s some technicality. Wonder how many Boyle has seen off in his career.

The post was re Newell and the reply said it was a lie, just pointing out it wasn't. I get there are others in the squad who've been here longer.

TBH Newell is the least of our worries.

[Basildon Hibs]

We get bullied in midfield every week. Have done for years. We sign soft players.


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Correct. 👍👍🫵

[theonlywayisup]

Joe Newell posted missing in a big game once more. The guy has managed to get 4 managers sacked so far. How he got MoM is completely bonkers to me.


One of the only players I’d have said did alright tonight


Our best player tonight imo.

Says a lot that I agree he was one of our better players tonight, but no-where near good enough. We need a major clear-out and better players coming in and I'd start with the midfield.

[Shrekko]

Joe Newell posted missing in a big game once more. The guy has managed to get 4 managers sacked so far. How he got MoM is completely bonkers to me.

Bore off. This post is an absolute stick on every time we lose.

Newell was the best player on the park last night- same as he was in the League Cup semi. The fact the team lost both games 1-0 to late goals doesn't change that.

If the award was 'bonkers' to you it's because of your pre-conceptions. How you could single him out as 'posted missing' is just embarrassing- one of the few that shows some real bravery.

[NAE NOOKIE]

Bore off. This post is an absolute stick on every time we lose.

Newell was the best player on the park last night- same as he was in the League Cup semi. The fact the team lost both games 1-0 to late goals doesn't change that.

If the award was 'bonkers' to you it's because of your pre-conceptions. How you could single him out as 'posted missing' is just embarrassing- one of the few that shows some real bravery.

Absolutely bang on mate. How anybody can have a go at Newell after last night is bonkers ... he was the best player on the park on either side, To imply he was missing is utter rubbish. This team has a load of problems but Joe Newell isn't one of them. He isn't letting Hibs down, Hibs are letting him down by leaving him for two and a half seasons carrying our bloody midfield on his own.

[VoltaireHibs]

The thing that concerns me is that none of the players, with the exception of Jair, look like they're enjoying themselves. They do not look like a team that are really up for it. I don't think there's any lack of effort, but when a team are being asked to play a certain way and it keeps failing, then at some point performance levels will drop, that's just human nature.

And look at what most of these players have had to put up with in the last four to five years? Play Ross style, now switch to Maloney style, now go again with Johnson style (yeah, I know...), now go NM style. The players heads must be spinning.

The best SPL performance this season by us was in September up at Pittodrie. We looked like a team, the players knew their roles and we looked confident and in control. So it can be done with this squad.

[Exuberance1875]

Greg Docherty played only 8 times for Hull this season, should be doing all we can to get him back if possible. Could solve a lot of problems in the midfield and help give it some balance.

[WhileTheChief..]

Harsh to blame him on his own but he has been part of a dreadful midfield for about 5 years now.


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Yup, it's been the same problem staring us in the face all this time.

Hopefully NM sees it and will start to fix it next week.

[Shrekko]

.

The best SPL performance this season by us was in September up at Pittodrie. We looked like a team, the players knew their roles and we looked confident and in control. So it can be done with this squad.

Whenever we've played under caretaker managers recently we've played a very simple basic style that you'd probably class as being fairly typical of the way most teams in the league set-up. We've been pretty successful in those games because we have better players than most other teams in the league. Seems simple enough but there always seems to be this added burden that long term Hibs have to be seen as being different despite the fact it's led to years of failure.

[VoltaireHibs]

Absolutely bang on mate. How anybody can have a go at Newell after last night is bonkers ... he was the best player on the park on either side, To imply he was missing is utter rubbish. This team has a load of problems but Joe Newell isn't one of them. He isn't letting Hibs down, Hibs are letting him down by leaving him for two and a half seasons carrying our bloody midfield on his own.

Spot on. I wouldn't have liked to see that game last night if he wasn't playing. We'd have been completely overrun. Not sure if folk realise how much work Newell does off the ball, he absolutely gives it his all. Personally I'd like to see us bring in a box to box midfielder and play Joe in the current Levitt role. His game awareness and decent passing would make him a decent choice at defensive mid.

[B.H.F.C]

I find it difficult to be too critical of the midfield as they’re constantly outnumbered. It’s fine if you’re making the sacrifices in that area to gain elsewhere but all we’re not getting anything else, elsewhere, that is making it worthwhile just now.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Greg Docherty played only 8 times for Hull this season, should be doing all we can to get him back if possible. Could solve a lot of problems in the midfield and help give it some balance.

If we’re going to persist with 4-4-2 I genuinely think he’d be the best signing we could make.

[Hibee Daft]

Newell, Levitt and Ewan Henderson would probably be a good midfield for a Maloney team that like to pass it and keep possesion.


I think monty needs two energetic midfielders that can tackle and have high work rate.

Maybe Kenneh might do better under this system along with Campbell.

[Exuberance1875]

If we’re going to persist with 4-4-2 I genuinely think he’d be the best signing we could make.

Think it would lighten the load on the current midfield too, would give us scope to change the team more often

[GreenCastle]

Josh Campbell - 8 goals last season. 4 assists.

Where did he score those goals from?

[Paulie Walnuts]

Think it would lighten the load on the current midfield too, would give us scope to change the team more often

It would definitely lighten the load. He also covers a power of ground and can carry the ball, something that is desperately needed if we’re going to persist with being a man short in there most games.

[number9dream]

Greg Docherty played only 8 times for Hull this season, should be doing all we can to get him back if possible. Could solve a lot of problems in the midfield and help give it some balance.

Not a single league start… Hull are doing well and he picked up an injury just before the season got started.
He’s free to talk to other clubs in the coming days but won’t be cheap in terms of wages.

[JohnM1875]

Not a single league start… Hull are doing well and he picked up an injury just before the season got started.
He’s free to talk to other clubs in the coming days but won’t be cheap in terms of wages.

We should be all over it if it's even a remote possibility in my opinion.

[VoltaireHibs]

We should be all over it if it's even a remote possibility in my opinion.

I know he was at us on loan, but I've always felt he was a Hearts type player and it wouldn't surprise me remotely if they are in for him. I'd be happy to see him here again either way but some players just look like Jambos. No logic to it but there we are.

[Ozyhibby]

He’s an upgrade on what we have. [emoji106]


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[J-C]

Docherty shamelessly hid in that defeat to Hearts, wasn't the only one but his performance that day said it all for me, always looked like it was beneath him to play for us after signing for his beloved Rangers.

[thebausburst]

We should be all over it if it's even a remote possibility in my opinion.

100% he is EXACTLY the player we need and quality we should be aiming for.

[BILLYHIBS]

Docherty shamelessly hid in that defeat to Hearts, wasn't the only one but his performance that day said it all for me, always looked like it was beneath him to play for us after signing for his beloved Rangers.

👍

Followed up with a no show at Pittodrie in a 1-3 defeat never played for us again a shame after a highly promising start but the Hearts game did it for me was a rabbit caught in the headlights but wasn’t alone on the night in a spineless team performance against a rock bottom Hearts team who wanted it more

[LaMotta]

Docherty shamelessly hid in that defeat to Hearts, wasn't the only one but his performance that day said it all for me, always looked like it was beneath him to play for us after signing for his beloved Rangers.


👍

Followed up with a no show at Pittodrie in a 1-3 defeat never played for us again a shame after a highly promising start but the Hearts game did it for me was a rabbit caught in the headlights but wasn’t alone on the night in a spineless team performance against a rock bottom Hearts team who wanted it more

Agreed. Doubt there's any chance he will end up here but won't be losing any sleep over it.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Docherty shamelessly hid in that defeat to Hearts, wasn't the only one but his performance that day said it all for me, always looked like it was beneath him to play for us after signing for his beloved Rangers.

3 goals and 5 assists in 8 games.

The idea he was swanning about thinking he was too good to be here is laughable.

[greenlex]

I always thought Docherty would have been a natural successor for McGinn. He was playing for Hamilton at the time and McGinn was yet to set the EPL alight.

[Chipper1875]

3 goals and 5 assists in 8 games.

The idea he was swanning about thinking he was too good to be here is laughable.

He was brutal in that game . Didn’t try a leg

[The Modfather]

3 goals and 5 assists in 8 games.

The idea he was swanning about thinking he was too good to be here is laughable.

I too find it strange that Docherty is defined by that derby performance, and not any of the games he did well in before then. Boyle, Doidge, Stevenson & Hanlon, to name but 4, also played that night and wilted under the pressure same as Docherty. Yet they are never mentioned when that game comes up, far less defined by it.

[BILLYHIBS]

Didnae want to be here

It’s a no from me but no gonna happen anyway

The only Hibs player to get pass marks that night was Hallberg who showed the correct attitude coming on in the 89th minute replacing the ineffective Docherty getting stuck in and scoring a good goal

Another disgrace that night was McNulty stamping on a prostrate Hearts player

[CapitalGreen]

Last seasons POTY has failed to turn up in multiple derbies.

[LaMotta]

3 goals and 5 assists in 8 games.

The idea he was swanning about thinking he was too good to be here is laughable.

To be fair, 4 of those goal contributions came in one game vs part time BSC Glasgow in the cup.

He was good away at Kilmarnock in the league, scored a raker, but the rest of his league games he wasnt that great - certainly in the 2 biggest games v Hearts and Aberdeen when we were hopeless in both.

[Paulie Walnuts]

To be fair, 4 of those goal contributions came in one game vs part time BSC Glasgow in the cup.

He was good away at Kilmarnock in the league, scored a raker, but the rest of his league games he wasnt that great - certainly in the 2 biggest games v Hearts and Aberdeen when we were hopeless in both.
Even removing that game, he still has 4 goal contributions in 7 games from centre mid. He was a cracking player imo. If he signed id fancy he’d be our best player.