Midfield

[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.

[Ozyhibby]

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 https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?354957-Midfield&highlight=midfield
19th December 2021 https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?355528-Midfield&highlight=midfield
21st January 2022 https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?355951-Midfield&highlight=midfield
1st February 2022 https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?356154-Centre-of-Midfield&highlight=midfield
14th July 2022 https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?358274-Midfield&highlight=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.

Gutted I only started one of those. [emoji23]
Problem won’t be fixed while Joe Newall remains in the team.


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[King conrad]

To think we had far superior midfielders in the Championship. Mcgeouch, McGinn, Bartley,Allan,Fyvie,Henderson.

It's ok though we've signed loads of young development players who can play in midfield in 3 years time.

[Libby Hibby]

Play Tait and see what happens, it really can’t be any worse than Newell every week.

[MWHIBBIES]

To think we had far superior midfielders in the Championship. Mcgeouch, McGinn, Bartley,Allan,Fyvie,Henderson.

It's ok though we've signed loads of young development players who can play in midfield in 3 years time.

We had a far superior everything except goalie. Midfield weren't great today but forwards first half were absolutely dreadful.

[GreenCastle]

It’s so depressing and predictable. I thought with Campbell getting injured last week surely they will add another central midfielder
..

Nope..

They have 2 weeks to fix it.

A centre back on left side and a central midfielder or 2.

Over to you LJ and Hibs - prove me wrong and sort the massive hole in the middle of our team.

[B.H.F.C]

I don’t see us doing anything about it which is inexplicable really.

Threads like this will be a continuous theme throughout the season, if we don’t.

[LunasBoots]

Need a spine of a team which has been the case for years and which we've all said for years, those at the club just see something else, time for those running the club to wake up.

[Hibs4185]

Here here! Midfield and joe Newell is the problem. He is a pansy as our midfield with him in it.

4 managers, 4 x the same problem. Joe Newell.

[PH91]

We had a far superior everything except goalie. Midfield weren't great today but forwards first half were absolutely dreadful.

Absolutely. Our forward players (except boyle) have been so poor for so long. Tavares and Melkersen were laughably bad today. Tavares is so far away from being ready for the first team its painful to watch.

[B.H.F.C]

Absolutely. Our forward players (except boyle) have been so poor for so long. Tavares and Melkersen were laughably bad today. Tavares is so far away from being ready for the first team its painful to watch.

Have a degree of sympathy for Melkersen in that he’s not a wide player. Had he not been injured he’d have been hooked with Tavares anyway. Just like he was last week playing there. And the week before that.

[Brightside]

I’d have Kenneh and JDH. No one else is good enough or wants it enough.

[Saint Hibee]

Play Tait and see what happens, it really can’t be any worse than Newell every week.

Yep, keep hearing how great Tait is, so why he’s not at least being given a chance?

[H18 SFR]

Yep, keep hearing how great Tait is, so why he’s not at least being given a chance?

I watched Tait midweek when we played Brechin City. Bags of potential there but he’s simply not walking into our midfield and revolutionising it. We all want and wish that was the case but it’s simply not. It’s just not happening.

[Golden Bear]

I watched Tait midweek when we played Brechin City. Bags of potential there but he’s simply not walking into our midfield and revolutionising it. We all want and wish that was the case but it’s simply not. It’s just not happening.

That opinion is almost exactly the same as another I heard today on the same subject.

[H18 SFR]

That opinion is almost exactly the same as another I heard today on the same subject.

He is in the right place in terms of the development team. Hopefully a loan for the boy to go and progress further before the end of the transfer window.

He isn’t ready for the responsibility of improving our midfield at this time.

[B.H.F.C]

I watched Tait midweek when we played Brechin City. Bags of potential there but he’s simply not walking into our midfield and revolutionising it. We all want and wish that was the case but it’s simply not. It’s just not happening.

He may well not. But we certainly ain’t going to revolutionise it if we keep doing the same things.

FWIW, I’m not suggesting Tait would solve all our issues but I do find it a bit odd that he’s had so little opportunity. When he came on against Norwich he was head and shoulders the best player on the park but then wasn’t even stripped for St Johnstone.

[Golden Bear]

He is in the right place in terms of the development team. Hopefully a loan for the boy to go and progress further before the end of the transfer window.

He isn’t ready for the responsibility of improving our midfield at this time.

Which is exactly why he's not a regular feature in the first team squad.

[H18 SFR]

He may well not. But we certainly ain’t going to revolutionise it if we keep doing the same things.

FWIW, I’m not suggesting Tait would solve all our issues but I do find it a bit odd that he’s had so little opportunity. When he came on against Norwich he was head and shoulders the best player on the park but then want even stripped for St Johnstone.

I agree he looked good but the game meant zilch and In the eyes of our opponent it means minus zilch. Watch dean smiths post match interview if you don’t agree with that. He’s in the right place, development squad and hopefully a development loan incoming.

I actually think we are managing his development appropriately.

[B.H.F.C]

I agree he looked good but the game meant zilch and In the eyes of our opponent it means minus zilch. Watch dean smiths post match interview if you don’t agree with that. He’s in the right place, development squad and hopefully a development loan incoming.

I actually think we are managing his development appropriately.

What does a development loan do for his development?

That would mean him going to The Championship. We signed him because he was one of the best players in that league. I don’t think he develops by going back there. If he goes back there it’s because we deem him not good enough, not because we’re trying to develop him IMO.

[H18 SFR]

What does a development loan do for his development?

That would mean him going to The Championship. We signed him because he was one of the best players in that league. I don’t think he develops by going back there. If he goes back there it’s because we deem him not good enough, not because we’re trying to develop him IMO.

A development loan is designed to support a player to improve by playing first team games.

We would not send out a player deeming he isn’t good enough. It would be to improve them.

[B.H.F.C]

A development loan is designed to support a player to improve by playing first team games.

We would not send out a player deeming he isn’t good enough. It would be to improve them.

But all you’d be doing is sending him out to a level he’s already proven at. I don’t think it develops him at all.

I think it’s perfectly plausible that you’d send someone out because you don’t think they’re good enough or don’t see them as part of your plans, happens all the time.

He’s coming up for 21, if Hibs loan him back to a lower league side I don’t think he’s got a future here (certainly under this management team).

[H18 SFR]

But all you’d be doing is sending him out to a level he’s already proven at. I don’t think it develops him at all.

I think it’s perfectly plausible that you’d send someone out because you don’t think they’re good enough or don’t see them as part of your plans, happens all the time.

He’s coming up for 21, if Hibs loan him back to a lower league side I don’t think he’s got a future here (certainly under this management team).

If that’s the case then it’s time to move him on permanently so we don’t stunt the development of the next central midfield player coMing through needing to play in the development team.

[Stuart93]

Midfields been a problem for a long long time. Hasn’t been addressed by any manager since mcginn left. Not that he can be replaced but nothings came close.

[JohnM1875]

If that’s the case then it’s time to move him on permanently so we don’t stunt the development of the next central midfield player coMing through needing to play in the development team.

Tait was a standout at Raith in the Championship so no point loaning him at that level again,he has honestly been a standout in the games he's played this season as well.

He 100% needs a few games in the first team to show what he can do. Surely can't be any worse than Henderson has been past two games. If not I actually agree, we should let him go for his own development.

[Libby Hibby]

Just give Tait a try. I’m not saying he will revolutionalise the midfield but he will be a different style to this mundane same old, same old that is currently being served by Joe Newell.

[H18 SFR]

This is what our manager thinks:

“It’s important that young players get 25-plus games a season. You’re not going to get them in the first team here right now but they are a step ahead of the development squad so a loan becomes the next option.”

He’s not coming into the team, he’s heading away.

Tait is not the solution here. Pure and simple.

[Sir David Gray]

This is what our manager thinks:

“It’s important that young players get 25-plus games a season. You’re not going to get them in the first team here right now but they are a step ahead of the development squad so a loan becomes the next option.”

He’s not coming into the team, he’s heading away.

Tait is not the solution here. Pure and simple.

Tait will be 21 soon, he signed for us a year ago and has played just 13 minutes of football for our first team so far and that was when we were 5-0 up v Clyde.

I think if players are getting into their 20s and not even looking like breaking into the first team the writing is probably on the wall.

[phoenixfire]

Tait will be 21 soon, he signed for us a year ago and has played just 13 minutes of football for our first team so far and that was when we were 5-0 up v Clyde.

I think if players are getting into their 20s and not even looking like breaking into the first team the writing is probably on the wall.

Really hope we sign a good quality attacking midfielder and get Kyle back playing too what a difference he would make imo!

[B.H.F.C]

Tait will be 21 soon, he signed for us a year ago and has played just 13 minutes of football for our first team so far and that was when we were 5-0 up v Clyde.

I think if players are getting into their 20s and not even looking like breaking into the first team the writing is probably on the wall.

He also signed for a six figure fee. Same with McKay, who is now back where we signed him from. Sending them back to the same team, or level, is nothing to do with trying to develop them IMO.

It’s really bloody frustrating. Sitting at the game today and you’re watching some of the younger players who just look out their depth in that environment. I’m all for developing players but today just heightened the feeling, for me, that we’re doing it to the detriment of the thing we’re paying good money to watch.

[jacomo]

Tait will be 21 soon, he signed for us a year ago and has played just 13 minutes of football for our first team so far and that was when we were 5-0 up v Clyde.

I think if players are getting into their 20s and not even looking like breaking into the first team the writing is probably on the wall.


We need to give them the chance though no?

[Sir David Gray]

Really hope we sign a good quality attacking midfielder and get Kyle back playing too what a difference he would make imo!

I'd love to see Magennis back soon but it's looking more unlikely with every passing day unfortunately.

[Sir David Gray]

We need to give them the chance though no?

You have to assume that Johnson is seeing Tait in training every day and just doesn't believe that he's good enough to replace any of our current midfield which really doesn't say much for his prospects at all.

[Pretty Boy]

I think Tait is as good as down at Hibs tbh. I know at least one 1st team player is mystified that he isn't even getting into the squad.

The fact he isn't even getting a strip and there are guys younger than him starting games (and struggling a wee bit) and the fact midfield is our biggest issue suggests there is an issue. Be that a personality clash or him not showing up in training, it doesn't really matter. He isn't going to be the answer in midfield anytime soon.

I agree with the people saying any loan won't really be about development. We know he can cut it at Championship level. He's played not a kick in the arse of 100 games in League One and the Championship. If he isn't competing for a start here now then another 25 games at a lower level isn't going to change that.

[theonlywayisup]

I think Tait is as good as down at Hibs tbh. I know at least one 1st team player is mystified that he isn't even getting into the squad.

The fact he isn't even getting a strip and there are guys younger than him starting games (and struggling a wee bit) and the fact midfield is our biggest issue suggests there is an issue. Be that a personality clash or him not showing up in training, it doesn't really matter. He isn't going to be the answer in midfield anytime soon.

I agree with the people saying any loan won't really be about development. We know he can cut it at Championship level. He's played not a kick in the arse of 100 games in League One and the Championship. If he isn't competing for a start here now then another 25 games at a lower level isn't going to change that.

Yes, it's baffling that Tait and Delferriere are not getting a chance when our midfield is so poor. Talking about development, can you imagine how good their development would be if they were coming on at a buzzing Easter Road to replace a Mcgeouch, McGinn, Bartley, Allan, Fyvie etc in the 60th minute. Instead, we're hoping and praying that they'll be better than Newell, Campbell, JDH etc.

[theonlywayisup]

Gutted I only started one of those. [emoji23]
Problem won’t be fixed while Joe Newall remains in the team.


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You should read the thread, some cracking statements in there. Lots of "Joe Newell is quality" comments.

I've said before on many times that Joe Newell is a good footballer and will impress in a good team, but he's not good enough. Yesterday, it was painfully obvious how many times he slowed up play. We need better, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. :boo hoo:

[Paulie Walnuts]

You should read the thread, some cracking statements in there. Lots of "Joe Newell is quality" comments.

I've said before on many times that Joe Newell is a good footballer and will impress in a good team, but he's not good enough. Yesterday, it was painfully obvious how many times he slowed up play. We need better, but I don't see that happening anytime soon. :boo hoo:

I’ve read alot on here that Newell would be quality in a quality team.

That doesn’t make you a good player imo. It makes you a player that needs carried by actual good players because you can’t do it when you’re not surrounded by them.

[Libby Hibby]

Drop Joe Newell, humour me

[Allant1981]

The problem we have just now is we have no midfielder in the squad who is better than newell, who is going to come in and improve us? JDH isnt an upgrade, campbell isnt an upgrade, we have no idea if tait is as he doesnt get a game so he will keep playing until better comes in

[Paulie Walnuts]

The problem we have just now is we have no midfielder in the squad who is better than newell, who is going to come in and improve us? JDH isnt an upgrade, campbell isnt an upgrade, we have no idea if tait is as he doesnt get a game so he will keep playing until better comes in

Whilst JDH may not be an upgrade either, he’s at least different. Newell isn’t good enough and it’s also not working. He simply cannot keep playing.

[The Modfather]

Until Hibs actually address the midfield properly, which somehow they have neglected to do for 3 or 4 years, it’s not very appealing giving up an afternoon of my weekend to go to the game.

Despite spending a lot of money Hibs’ answer to the midfield problems the last 3 windows has been JDH, Henderson & Kenneh. Signing the likes of Marshall and Boyle will do more to mitigate and carry the midfield than the actual midfields we have signed!

[Allant1981]

Whilst JDH may not be an upgrade either, he’s at least different. Newell isn’t good enough and it’s also not working. He simply cannot keep playing.

Different yip but just as poor imo, just mental that our midfield wasnt great last season and still as poor now

[Paulie Walnuts]

Different yip but just as poor imo, just mental that our midfield wasnt great last season and still as poor now

Agree. Absolutely ridiculous that we haven’t improved it.

[Alfred E Newman]

Really hope we sign a good quality attacking midfielder and get Kyle back playing too what a difference he would make imo!

Yes, we can only dream.

[Ozyhibby]

Agree. Absolutely ridiculous that we haven’t improved it.

I really don’t understand it. It’s cost the last three managers their jobs and then Johnson comes in and thinks he’s special and that he will get them playing. He is deluding himself.
He is gambling his job on getting Magennis fit. I wouldn’t put 50p on that.
We just have to hope he comes to his senses in the next two weeks or we’ll have to hope the new manager sorts it in January.[emoji1696]


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[SHODAN]

This is my 18th season supporting Hibs and we've had a non-***** midfield for about four of those seasons. We'll maybe have a decent one again near the end of the decade, until then deal.

[Wheat Hound]

Big doubts re Henderson. Clearly has decent ability but posted missing all too often and rarely impacts games.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Big doubts re Henderson. Clearly has decent ability but posted missing all too often and rarely impacts games.

There’s a reason he had little impact at Dunfermline and Ross County.

He’s not good enough from what we’ve seen since January imo.

[HendoDelivered]

Big doubts re Henderson. Clearly has decent ability but posted missing all too often and rarely impacts games.

Seriously needs a PT and a good few protein shakes. A gust of wind would knock him off the ball.

[LaMotta]

Big doubts re Henderson. Clearly has decent ability but posted missing all too often and rarely impacts games.


There’s a reason he had little impact at Dunfermline and Ross County.

He’s not good enough from what we’ve seen since January imo.

:agree::agree:

Few people were getting far too carried away about him after a couple of goals against Bonnyrigg and Morton.

[shetlandhibee]

Tait was a standout at Raith in the Championship so no point loaning him at that level again,he has honestly been a standout in the games he's played this season as well.

He 100% needs a few games in the first team to show what he can do. Surely can't be any worse than Henderson has been past two games. If not I actually agree, we should let him go for his own development.
This 👌👍✔️

[Carheenlea]

Current state of our midfield

https://twitter.com/nocontextfooty/status/1558921736661377024?s=21&t=sEJlkZRhKp9Z4IImo2K_cQ

[Ronniekirk]

It’s so depressing and predictable. I thought with Campbell getting injured last week surely they will add another central midfielder
..

Nope..

They have 2 weeks to fix it

A centre back on left side and a central midfielder or 2.

Over to you LJ and Hibs - prove me wrong and sort the massive hole in the middle of our team.

Reports saying Campbell will be in squad to face Rangers

[Paulie Walnuts]

Current state of our midfield

https://twitter.com/nocontextfooty/status/1558921736661377024?s=21&t=sEJlkZRhKp9Z4IImo2K_cQ

:faf:

[SHODAN]

Honestly, as soon as Stevenson is fit I would put him back in midfield. That performance in the hell game at Hampden against the Hertz was as good as he's ever been.

[theonlywayisup]

Current state of our midfield

https://twitter.com/nocontextfooty/status/1558921736661377024?s=21&t=sEJlkZRhKp9Z4IImo2K_cQ

The number 9 is similar to Doidge in many ways.

[Ronniekirk]

I really don’t understand it. It’s cost the last three managers their jobs and then Johnson comes in and thinks he’s special and that he will get them playing. He is deluding himself.
He is gambling his job on getting Magennis fit. I wouldn’t put 50p on that.
We just have to hope he comes to his senses in the next two weeks or we’ll have to hope the new manager sorts it in January.[emoji1696]


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You have called in right in the past Am hoping L J s comments after the Livi game mean he is now losing patience
He said he was dissapointed with a few players and was critical we weren’t getting the ball played forward quickly enough ,with too many sideways passes slowing things up
The question now is will Ron back up in this window to bring in at least one midfielder or will he have to wait till the next two windows
I think with a few extra players and a few back from injury 4 th place is a possibility That should be all the motivation Ron needs

[Heisenberg]

Update on Magennis expected this week

https://t.co/EODmdWeRUF

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Magennis update due this week, according to Patrick

Fingers crossed its positive. The way he started last season had us all buzzing

[loanheadhibby]

Magennis update due this week, according to Patrick

Fingers crossed its positive. The way he started last season had us all buzzing

It didn't have me buzzing.
What were these games?
He gets better each week he doesn't play.
It's not his fault 're injuries but we signed him from St Mirren and he wasn't fit when he arrived at Easter Road.

[Smartie]

It didn't have me buzzing.
What were these games?
He gets better each week he doesn't play.
It's not his fault 're injuries but we signed him from St Mirren and he wasn't fit when he arrived at Easter Road.

I quite liked the ones where he was getting into the box with late runs and scoring like we've not seen in a midfielder since Pat McGinlay, leading us to a position where we looked set to go top of the league at Ibrox late that September before fate sort of got in the way.

The Magennis of the previous season - a bit underwhelming.

The Magennis who started last season on fire - would be welcome to come back and get into the side any time he likes.

[Heisenberg]

It didn't have me buzzing.
What were these games?
He gets better each week he doesn't play.
It's not his fault 're injuries but we signed him from St Mirren and he wasn't fit when he arrived at Easter Road.

Did you not pay any attention at the start of last season? Scored at a rate of 1 in 3 games and was a key part of our very good form. If you weren’t buzzing when we were sat top of the league or near enough to it then there’s no hope for you.

That’s not to say he’s been a good signing, he’s been miles away from that. He was very good last season before injury though.

[Unseen work]

https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/kyle-magennis-injury-latest-with-hibs-set-to-issue-further-update-on-player-after-nearly-11-months-out-3808375

An article saying well give an update about Magennis soon.

Seems odd, unless it’s just as much as he’s now back on grass and playing in training etc that we’ll see in photos.

Could make a huge difference for us, especially if he can keep himself fit.

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

It didn't have me buzzing.
What were these games?
He gets better each week he doesn't play.
It's not his fault 're injuries but we signed him from St Mirren and he wasn't fit when he arrived at Easter Road.

We were flying last season until the Porto red card at Ibrox

Magennis, Boyle and Nisbet were linking really well and some of the football was fantastic. Maybe not everyone, but a large section of the support felt we'd picked up where we left off the season before and Magennis had supplemented the starting 1! Well. Unfortunately his season ended soon after

[stantonhibby]

It didn't have me buzzing.
What were these games?
He gets better each week he doesn't play.
It's not his fault 're injuries but we signed him from St Mirren and he wasn't fit when he arrived at Easter Road.

Nothing about Hibs has you buzzing

[J-C]

Yes, it's baffling that Tait and Delferriere are not getting a chance when our midfield is so poor. Talking about development, can you imagine how good their development would be if they were coming on at a buzzing Easter Road to replace a Mcgeouch, McGinn, Bartley, Allan, Fyvie etc in the 60th minute. Instead, we're hoping and praying that they'll be better than Newell, Campbell, JDH etc.

Delferriere is on loan at City Edinburgh.

[loanheadhibby]

Did you not pay any attention at the start of last season? Scored at a rate of 1 in 3 games and was a key part of our very good form. If you weren’t buzzing when we were sat top of the league or near enough to it then there’s no hope for you.

That’s not to say he’s been a good signing, he’s been miles away from that. He was very good last season before injury though.
I know there's no hope for me but for how long did he sustain 1 in 3.
Are you talking 2 in 6 or 10 in 30.

[loanheadhibby]

Nothing about Hibs has you buzzing

Not in recent times sadly other than the league cup semi first half.
What about yourself?
The trouble is that our standards are now so low that any slight crumb of comfort is completely exaggerated.

[stantonhibby]

Not in recent times sadly other than the league cup semi first half.
What about yourself?
The trouble is that our standards are now so low that any slight crumb of comfort is completely exaggerated.

A last minute goal against Hearts generally gets me buzzing

[Fuzzywuzzy]

Wonder if we would see any benefits in bringing Bartley in as a coach

[RIP]

Nothing about Hibs has you buzzing

I’ve noticed that for a few weeks now. Someone at the club must have seriously pished in his cornflakes.

[Hibiza]

Midfield ? Is that where players are ( should be)
between defending and attacking ?

[theonlywayisup]

So, six days on from the display against the The Rangers what's everyone's view on the midfield and whether it needs to be strengthened.

I think we'll all agree that the midfield trio of Newell, Campbell and JDH demonstrated against the The Rangers that they are individually good players. However, we've seen it before, them playing well against the better teams when the main requirements are to break up the opposition play and frustrate. They are less effective when we dominate the ball, as was evident against the The Rangers' nine men until Campbell's fantastic shot.

Are we going to see an addition in midfield, possible two, or is it a waiting game until Magennis returns?

[blackpoolhibs]

So, six days on from the display against the The Rangers what's everyone's view on the midfield and whether it needs to be strengthened.

I think we'll all agree that the midfield trio of Newell, Campbell and JDH demonstrated against the The Rangers that they are individually good players. However, we've seen it before, them playing well against the better teams when the main requirements are to break up the opposition play and frustrate. They are less effective when we dominate the ball, as was evident against the The Rangers' nine men until Campbell's fantastic shot.

Are we going to see an addition in midfield, possible two, or is it a waiting game until Magennis returns?

:agree:

I think thats exactly why we struggle, none of those three have the ability to drive forward and create space for others by dragging players out from the back.

This is one of the reasons we dont create much in open play against the supposed weaker sides.

[The Modfather]

So, six days on from the display against the The Rangers what's everyone's view on the midfield and whether it needs to be strengthened.

I think we'll all agree that the midfield trio of Newell, Campbell and JDH demonstrated against the The Rangers that they are individually good players. However, we've seen it before, them playing well against the better teams when the main requirements are to break up the opposition play and frustrate. They are less effective when we dominate the ball, as was evident against the The Rangers' nine men until Campbell's fantastic shot.

Are we going to see an addition in midfield, possible two, or is it a waiting game until Magennis returns?

I hope the performance against Rangers, bare in mind Johnson wasn’t happy with the first 45 mins - I only saw the second half so can’t comment, would be folly to change our thinking on the needs of the midfield. It was only the previous game we were terrible first half against Livingston. It’s a midfield with a low glass ceiling, can compete in the bigger games at home where less onus on us to dictate possession and play on the counter attack. There shortcomings are seen more often when we are the team that needs to proactively try and win the game.

If we decide to stick with what we’ve got we’ll simply see more of the same. Won’t score enough goals, won’t get enough players in the box, will still turn in regular off days. It would be too much for Marshall & Boyle to carry us to competing for 3rd.

[B.H.F.C]

So, six days on from the display against the The Rangers what's everyone's view on the midfield and whether it needs to be strengthened.

I think we'll all agree that the midfield trio of Newell, Campbell and JDH demonstrated against the The Rangers that they are individually good players. However, we've seen it before, them playing well against the better teams when the main requirements are to break up the opposition play and frustrate. They are less effective when we dominate the ball, as was evident against the The Rangers' nine men until Campbell's fantastic shot.

Are we going to see an addition in midfield, possible two, or is it a waiting game until Magennis returns?

I think a midfielder is still an absolute must.

At 11v11 against Rangers I still thought we struggled for large parts in that area. Work rate and the off the ball stuff wasn’t a problem but in the first 45 we did absolutely nothing with the ball.

Campbell obviously showed some quality second half and hopefully he can continue that. Henderson has been a disappointment in the first four league games after a promising pre season and League Cup.

[jacomo]

I hope the performance against Rangers, bare in mind Johnson wasn’t happy with the first 45 mins - I only saw the second half so can’t comment, would be folly to change our thinking on the needs of the midfield. It was only the previous game we were terrible first half against Livingston. It’s a midfield with a low glass ceiling, can compete in the bigger games at home where less onus on us to dictate possession and play on the counter attack. There shortcomings are seen more often when we are the team that needs to proactively try and win the game.

If we decide to stick with what we’ve got we’ll simply see more of the same. Won’t score enough goals, won’t get enough players in the box, will still turn in regular off days. It would be too much for Marshall & Boyd to carry us to competing for 3rd.


We restricted them to very little in the first half but offered nothing ourselves. Midfield still the major area of concern for me. Up front we look better but we aren’t providing much for our forwards to work with.

[Eyrie]

So, six days on from the display against the The Rangers what's everyone's view on the midfield and whether it needs to be strengthened.

I think we'll all agree that the midfield trio of Newell, Campbell and JDH demonstrated against the The Rangers that they are individually good players. However, we've seen it before, them playing well against the better teams when the main requirements are to break up the opposition play and frustrate. They are less effective when we dominate the ball, as was evident against the The Rangers' nine men until Campbell's fantastic shot.

Are we going to see an addition in midfield, possible two, or is it a waiting game until Magennis returns?

If Magennis will make that much of a difference, then we absolutely need an addition in midfield with his skill set so that we have some depth.

[Paulie Walnuts]

If Magennis will make that much of a difference, then we absolutely need an addition in midfield with his skill set so that we have some depth.

We should not be counting on Magennis. Go out and get a quality midfielder and if Magennis does happen to come back and play very well then we’re in a great position in midfield. If he doesn’t, we’ll still be alright.

Relying on Magennis really just leaves us praying he comes back and plays well or else we’ll be struggling in there.

[number9dream]

I think a midfielder is still an absolute must.

At 11v11 against Rangers I still thought we struggled for large parts in that area. Work rate and the off the ball stuff wasn’t a problem but in the first 45 we did absolutely nothing with the ball.

Campbell obviously showed some quality second half and hopefully he can continue that. Henderson has been a disappointment in the first four league games after a promising pre season and League Cup.

Yup. We have guys that can press but we’re not really equipped to break the press in the middle of the park. It looks like we need an upgrade on Henderson but it’s hard to find these kind of players on the budget we have. When fit, McGeady could maybe play the 10 role but does he have the energy and stamina?

[Shrekko]

Not in recent times sadly other than the league cup semi first half.
What about yourself?
The trouble is that our standards are now so low that any slight crumb of comfort is completely exaggerated.

This always makes me laugh "our standards are now so low" as if we've generally been at a much higher level! Where have you been these past 40 years?

If being 3-1 up v Rangers in 45 minutes is all that'll get you going you are 100 percent going to struggle to deal with being a Hibs fan much longer.

[loanheadhibby]

This always makes me laugh "our standards are now so low" as if we've generally been at a much higher level! Where have you been these past 40 years?

If being 3-1 up v Rangers in 45 minutes is all that'll get you going you are 100 percent going to struggle to deal with being a Hibs fan much longer.
I'm really talking about certain season's in the last few years.
Some of the periods under Mowbray and Lennon were exciting but in recent times it's been pretty boring.
Roll on tomorrow in Paisley.

[Basildon Hibs]

We restricted them to very little in the first half but offered nothing ourselves. Midfield still the major area of concern for me. Up front we look better but we aren’t providing much for our forwards to work with.

Correct.

[theonlywayisup]

OP now updated with the latest new threads relating to our midfield.

Not wanting to repeat debates that are on-going on the other threads, but how frustrating it is to see what many agree to be the key problem area in our team not being improved. If this isn't reinforced by the time the window slams shut then it's going to be a long hard season for us Hibees.

[GRA]

OP now updated with the latest new threads relating to our midfield.

Not wanting to repeat debates that are on-going on the other threads, but how frustrating it is to see what many agree to be the key problem area in our team not being improved. If this isn't reinforced by the time the window slams shut then it's going to be a long hard season for us Hibees.

Same issue as it has been for years... we need a Marvin Barley/Matty Jack type figure in there. Someone who does the dirty work to allow the flair players to play. Gogic was this man for half a season then his form nosedived. Jury out on Kenneh but JDH ain't up to standard and Henderson has the strength of a kitten.

[B.H.F.C]

Same issue as it has been for years... we need a Marvin Barley/Matty Jack type figure in there. Someone who does the dirty work to allow the flair players to play. Gogic was this man for half a season then his form nosedived. Jury out on Kenneh but JDH ain't up to standard and Henderson has the strength of a kitten.

See it the opposite way. They all get about the pitch, tackle and work hard.

But we have zero creativity in there. We need someone who is going to get the ball in to the likes of Boyle quickly.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Same issue as it has been for years... we need a Marvin Barley/Matty Jack type figure in there. Someone who does the dirty work to allow the flair players to play. Gogic was this man for half a season then his form nosedived. Jury out on Kenneh but JDH ain't up to standard and Henderson has the strength of a kitten.

Other way round for me.

We’ve got a midfield full of players who can at least do the unglamorous job semi competently.

We need quality flair players in there or else it’ll be another season of the 3 of them in there just plodding along unable to do much of note near enough every week.

[Libby Hibby]

Did Graeme Shinnie find a club?

[04Sauzee]

Did Graeme Shinnie find a club?

He's been playing for Wigan

[theonlywayisup]

Will be interesting to see if there are any new reinforcements in midfield. :tumble:

The lack of rumours in the midfield area makes me think that there will be none and it'll be Newell, JDH, Campbell, Kenneh and Henderson that will be our key players in midfield until Magennis returns from injury. :yawn2:

[California-Hibs]

Will be interesting to see if there are any new reinforcements in midfield. :tumble:

The lack of rumours in the midfield area makes me think that there will be none and it'll be Newell, JDH, Campbell, Kenneh and Henderson that will be our key players in midfield until Magennis returns from injury. :yawn2:

Stop it, you're scaring me!

[RIP]

Will be interesting to see if there are any new reinforcements in midfield. :tumble:

The lack of rumours in the midfield area makes me think that there will be none and it'll be Newell, JDH, Campbell, Kenneh and Henderson that will be our key players in midfield until Magennis returns from injury. :yawn2:

From November, we will be rotating from a six of Kenneh or Doyle-Hayes at 6, Newell or Campbell at 8 and McGeady or McGinnis at 10.

Possibly Kenneh, McGinnis and McGeady in midfield

Boyle, Youan and Nisbet up front against bottom six clubs

[Greenio]

I'd be keen to see Kenneh, McGinnis and McGeady together. Feels like a better grouping

Famous last words!

[Paulie Walnuts]

I'd be keen to see Kenneh, McGinnis and McGeady together. Feels like a better grouping

Famous last words!

I wouldn’t mind that midfield, I’d just be wary it’ll rarely be available.

I see Magennis as an 8, presumably a bit like you. I think he should be filling that McGinn role where he’s always involved in all aspects of play and has the space ahead of him to break into and carry the ball. He’s been suggested as a 10 on here previously but I definitely think an 8 is his best position and the position we’re crying out for a new signing in.

[Tambo]

Kenneh definitely was treated harsh for me after the Livingston game, let's not forget Cabraja bad pass and Hanlon getting his ankles broken.

Kenneh has done ok for me in the role he's been asked to play, much better than others.

Henderson started so we'll pre season and league cup but has went back to how he was last season.

Campbell has brought his usual energy and a few goals.

JDH and Newell???

I'd like to see Kenneh return at the weekend but I wouldn't be hoping for much with a Midfield of Kenneh, Campbell and Henderson for the full season.

[neil7908]

We need to see what comes out in the next couple of hours but I'll be astonished if we don't sign a midfielder, and one that can slot straight into the first XI.

We seem to be stuck with the same options in the middle of the park as last year, which I just can't fathom.

If you'd said to me at the start of the window we'd likely be going into our first game in September with Campbell, JDH and Newell as our starting midfield I'd have laughed.

How can those running the club not see it? How long have we heard that Maguire and Ronaldo were not working for Man United but last season they kept getting played. And now they get dropped and they've won 3 in a row. Sometimes it's just as easy as that.

[MWHIBBIES]

While some of the stick is deserved, some folk are just making stuff up and it's ridiculous. As if they don't do anything right whatsoever. In our 2 defeats, our forwards have been worse than our midfield.

[Dmas]

While some of the stick is deserved, some folk are just making stuff up and it's ridiculous. As if they don't do anything right whatsoever. In our 2 defeats, our forwards have been worse than our midfield.

Maybe a fair point, hopefully new additions can offer more movement give them something to hit, the urgency is the main thing for me I think they tend to hold on to it too long and end up having to go sideways or back so hopefully mckirdy/mykolo offer more ahead of them

[Crunchie]

While some of the stick is deserved, some folk are just making stuff up and it's ridiculous. As if they don't do anything right whatsoever. In our 2 defeats, our forwards have been worse than our midfield.
The same culprits day in day out banging the same old drum.

[MWHIBBIES]

The same culprits day in day out banging the same old drum.

Do you mean myself or the dozens taking part in the same old circle jerk every week?

[Crunchie]

Do you mean myself or the dozens taking part in the same old circle jerk every week?
The latter, there is one in particular who posts at least a dozen times a day on how the midfield will see LJ out the door by the years end or sooner.

[Trinity Hibee]

The latter, there is one in particular who posts at least a dozen times a day on how the midfield will see LJ out the door by the years end or sooner.

Out of interest are you fine with our midfield options? I can see why many aren’t just now. They’ve been passive for months.

[MWHIBBIES]

The latter, there is one in particular who posts at least a dozen times a day on how the midfield will see LJ out the door by the years end or sooner.

Best ignored. 3 years ago he posted every day for 6 months that we must sign Alex Gogic from Hamilton as he'd solve all of our midfield problems.

[Crunchie]

Out of interest are you fine with our midfield options? I can see why many aren’t just now. They’ve been passive for months.
We have plenty of options when our injuries clear up, time will tell if we were right to sign anyone or not. If LJ thinks we're ok I'm fine with that

Banging on about what is only your opinion day in day out when everyone and his dog knows your opinion is attention seeking.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Another window passes with no quality being added to this area of the pitch. An area that was the root cause of the last two managers getting sacked.

We better hope Magennis is somehow fit soon and stays fit and also is in form.

[MWHIBBIES]

Another window passes with no quality being added to this area of the pitch. An area that was the root cause of the last two managers getting sacked.

We better hope Magennis is somehow fit soon and stays fit and also is in form.

Maloney didn't get sacked because of the midfield. He got sacked because he was hopeless.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Maloney didn't get sacked because of the midfield. He got sacked because he was hopeless.

The squad he had available was abysmal.

[theonlywayisup]

Will be interesting to see if there are any new reinforcements in midfield. :tumble:

The lack of rumours in the midfield area makes me think that there will be none and it'll be Newell, JDH, Campbell, Kenneh and Henderson that will be our key players in midfield until Magennis returns from injury. :yawn2:


Stop it, you're scaring me!

Prepare to be scared :agree:

I'm really surprised that we've not enhanced the quality in midfield. Must be hoping for a speedy Magennis return to the starting line-up.

[MWHIBBIES]

The squad he had available was abysmal.

No, it was average. His tactics made it abysmal.

[RIP]

Another window passes with no quality being added to this area of the pitch. An area that was the root cause of the last two managers getting sacked.

We better hope Magennis is somehow fit soon and stays fit and also is in form.

We have plenty enough midfielders once fit to be competitive in this league.

The team produce bucketloads of chances but had first choice strikers who can’t get on the end of crosses or score from five yards. With more options maybe that will improve

Kenneh, McGinnis, Newell and McGeady and 2-goal Campbell are a reasonable engine room at this level.

If you need cheered up why not post a joke on the League Cup thread? You can’t beat having a laugh at the Yam Fuds.

[Greenbeard]

Best ignored. 3 years ago he posted every day for 6 months that we must sign Alex Gogic from Hamilton as he'd solve all of our midfield problems.
Well he WAS what we needed at the time and it wasn't long before he was one of the first names on the team sheet. Then he regressed into a huddie.

[Northernhibee]

No, it was average. His tactics made it abysmal.
A poor squad which he failed to play to its few strengths. Maloney is arguably as bad as Butcher and thankfully wasn’t afforded as much time.

[Paulie Walnuts]

A poor squad which he failed to play to its few strengths. Maloney is arguably as bad as Butcher and thankfully wasn’t afforded as much time.

He kept a poor squad in pretty much the same mid table position that he took it over in despite losing by a mile our best player who had been carrying the team, losing our only half decent centre forward to injury and having Porteous suspended non stop.

There’s simply no argument he was as bad as butcher.

[The Modfather]

Utterly bizarre and masochistic from Hibs that in the last 3 windows we have signed JDH, Henderson & Kenneh as our only midfielders as an attempt to fix the heartbeat of the team.

Maybe McGeady too, if he’s ever fit, but then at the expense of having a natural or viable left winger.

[Ozyhibby]

Best ignored. 3 years ago he posted every day for 6 months that we must sign Alex Gogic from Hamilton as he'd solve all of our midfield problems.

The one thing you never quite manage to do is ignore me since you seem to mention me every time you post.[emoji23]
I’m coming round to your point of view now though. The midfield is excellent and the team is performing brilliantly.[emoji6]
Answer me a question, where did we finish in Alex Gogic’s only season as a regular at Hibs?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MWHIBBIES]

The one thing you never quite manage to do is ignore me since you seem to mention me every time you post.[emoji23]
I’m coming round to your point of view now though. The midfield is excellent and the team is performing brilliantly.[emoji6]
Answer me a question, where did we finish in Alex Gogic’s only season as a regular at Hibs?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

His partner Joe done all the hard work.

[Ozyhibby]

His partner Joe done all the hard work.

[emoji23]
Think Hallberg and Irvine might have helped as well. Surprised Joe hasn’t managed to repeat the trick now he doesn’t have Gogic holding him back.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Brightside]

Midfield is ok tbh. As long as he plays them as a 6 8 10 and not some crazy two number 8s formation. It will also be much better when we have mcgennis and McGeady available.

[jacomo]

Best ignored. 3 years ago he posted every day for 6 months that we must sign Alex Gogic from Hamilton as he'd solve all of our midfield problems.


Don’t start playing that game. Folk will bring up all the nonsense you’ve spouted on repeat.

[MWHIBBIES]

Don’t start playing that game. Folk will bring up all the nonsense you’ve spouted on repeat.

Yeah absolutely. More than happy to admit I'm wrong if someone can put up a good argument.

[The Modfather]

Yeah absolutely. More than happy to admit I'm wrong if someone can put up a good argument.

Like Doidge?

[MWHIBBIES]

Like Doidge?

Yes, absolutely. I thought he'd find his form and get back to the good player he was. Sadly not happened for us.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Midfield is ok tbh. As long as he plays them as a 6 8 10 and not some crazy two number 8s formation. It will also be much better when we have mcgennis and McGeady available.

I think it needs to be played as a 6, 8 and 10 but I just don’t think we’ve got the players to fit into that.

Kenneh and JDH are 6s, Henderson is a 10 but I don’t think he’s at the standard required and Newell is probably an 8 if you had to put him anywhere but he’s nowhere near box to box like an 8 should be.

[neil7908]

Midfield is ok tbh. As long as he plays them as a 6 8 10 and not some crazy two number 8s formation. It will also be much better when we have mcgennis and McGeady available.

I think that is a very optimistic assessment. We have no idea when Magennis will be back, how he will perform under our new manager, if he'll break down again, have lost some pace etc. And McGeady has been a winger almost his entire career and when he played for us at the start of the season didn't seem to be taking up a CM spot. And he's 36.

I feel better about our striking options and glad to have some cover at the back but totally baffled that we started last week with Campbell, JDH and Newell and have not made any additions to this area of the pitch.

[Tambo]

Well he WAS what we needed at the time and it wasn't long before he was one of the first names on the team sheet. Then he regressed into a huddie.

Aye we needed someone with some steel to stop teams walking through the Midfield.

Forgot that Joe Newell done all the work though.

[LaMotta]

I think it needs to be played as a 6, 8 and 10 but I just don’t think we’ve got the players to fit into that.

Kenneh and JDH are 6s, Henderson is a 10 but I don’t think he’s at the standard required and Newell is probably an 8 if you had to put him anywhere but he’s nowhere near box to box like an 8 should be.

This is the way it has been but I actually think Newell would be better as a 6 and JDH as a 10. Newell's best games for us are when we get an early need and he helps keep the ball slow the game down and can tackle as well. His final third play lets him down.

JDH has a decent bit of creativity I think and can shoot. We just rarely see him in the final third.

[The Modfather]

This is the way it has been but I actually think Newell would be better as a 6 and JDH as a 10. Newell's best games for us are when we get an early need and he helps keep the ball slow the game down and can tackle as well. His final third play lets him down.

JDH has a decent bit of creativity I think and can shoot. We just rarely see him in the final third.

Newell would be fine to bring on as a sub when we’re looking to close out a game. Or against the Old Firm, and to a lesser extent Hearts and Aberdeen, where we’re playing not to lose rather than actively go for the win. In games against the rest where we need to proactively go and win the game he’s more of a hinderance than a help IMO.

[LaMotta]

Newell would be fine to bring on as a sub when we’re looking to close out a game. Or against the Old Firm, and to a lesser extent Hearts and Aberdeen, where we’re playing not to lost rather than actively go for the win. In games against the rest where we need to proactively go and win the game he’s more of a hinderance than a help IMO.

:agree:

[WeeRussell]

Yeah absolutely. More than happy to admit I'm wrong if someone can put up a good argument.

Or alternatively call them sad for remembering such nonsense, tell them to cut the personal stuff, and claim to be right anyway.

[MWHIBBIES]

Or alternatively call them sad for remembering such nonsense, tell them to cut the personal stuff, and claim to be right anyway.

Not at all. Those aren't personal comments, they are purely related to the topics of this forum. Really isn't difficult to understand. I'll happily discuss anything Hibs or football related. When folk start name-calling because they cant handle that, or don't like being disagreed with, it becomes a farce. It is not me who starts that stuff.

Its funny folk seem to think I always claim to be right. It really isn't the case. I have admitted to being wrong many times on here without needing to get personal or abusive. That can be seen in this thread already. Strange how the ones making the personal comments rarely get abuse grief from other posters. I think you get away with a lot on here by simply agreeing with the herd mentality that forms when we're struggling. It becomes an echo chamber and anyone disagreeing gets abuse. Evident recently when I point out the failings or other, more liked, players instead of joining in the ''Joe Newell is the root of all evil'' circle jerk.

Some of the hysterics, abuse for our players and every thread getting spammed with the same crap has become ridiculous on here, and its not my doing. I personally don't see much harm in calling that out. ''If we don't sort x or y then Lee johnson will be sacked'' patter is just ****ing boring. When did supporting the team and manager and trusting their judgement, at least till they've had some time to get their ideas across, become to difficult?

[WeeRussell]

Not at all. Those aren't personal comments, they are purely related to the topics of this forum. Really isn't difficult to understand. I'll happily discuss anything Hibs or football related. When folk start name-calling because they cant handle that, or don't like being disagreed with, it becomes a farce. It is not me who starts that stuff.

Its funny folk seem to think I always claim to be right. It really isn't the case. I have admitted to being wrong many times on here without needing to get personal or abusive. That can be seen in this thread already. Strange how the ones making the personal comments rarely get abuse grief from other posters. I think you get away with a lot on here by simply agreeing with the herd mentality that forms when we're struggling. It becomes an echo chamber and anyone disagreeing gets abuse. Evident recently when I point out the failings or other, more liked, players instead of joining in the ''Joe Newell is the root of all evil'' circle jerk.

Some of the hysterics, abuse for our players and every thread getting spammed with the same crap has become ridiculous on here, and its not my doing. I personally don't see much harm in calling that out. ''If we don't sort x or y then Lee johnson will be sacked'' patter is just ****ing boring. When did supporting the team and manager and trusting their judgement, at least till they've had some time to get their ideas across, become to difficult?

Okay, don’t really want locked into one of these on a Saturday morning but at least I wholeheartedly agree with the second half of your post (if irrelevant) so shouldn’t take too long.

You’ve got solid form for accusing people of being “personal” if they call you out on your posting style/history or tell you that you don’t know what you’re talking about. I guess that’s why I found it “difficult to understand” your alluding to something Oz repeatedly said years ago, and advising he should be ignored.

But as long as it’s fair - I.e your reputation for always being right. You assured us that Martin Boyle was absolutely going nowhere, when I asked you if you were wrong as he left, apparently circumstances changed dramatically so you weren’t really wrong. Perhaps the same when he definitely wasn’t coming back?

Anyway don’t want to turn it into a petty battle, that was simply my point.

Genuine question relating to you now admitting being wrong about Doidge - do you think Shankland is a better striker now too? And would you admit that saying someone is a better player because they scored more goals in one game is a silly argument?

Nae hard feelings 👍

[MWHIBBIES]

Okay, don’t really want locked into one of these on a Saturday morning but at least I wholeheartedly agree with the second half of your post (if irrelevant) so shouldn’t take too long.

You’ve got solid form for accusing people of being “personal” if they call you out on your posting style/history or tell you that you don’t know what you’re talking about. I guess that’s why I found it “difficult to understand” your alluding to something Oz repeatedly said years ago, and advising he should be ignored.

But as long as it’s fair - I.e your reputation for always being right. You assured us that Martin Boyle was absolutely going nowhere, when I asked you if you were wrong as he left, apparently circumstances changed dramatically so you weren’t really wrong. Perhaps the same when he definitely wasn’t coming back?

Anyway don’t want to turn it into a petty battle, that was simply my point.

Genuine question relating to you now admitting being wrong about Doidge - do you think Shankland is a better striker now too? And would you admit that saying someone is a better player because they scored more goals in one game is a silly argument?

Nae hard feelings 👍

Can I ask what you base your opinions on?

I base mine purely on the knowledge I have at the time, nothing less, nothing more. I don't base them on pure speculation. When I made those statements about Boyle, there was absolutely nothing concrete about him going anywhere that was public knowledge. When that changed, I changed my opinion.

If Doidge can get back to his form from before his injury, he is a better player than Shankland. If his form has genuinely gone and this is him, obviously Shankland is better.

Doidge always done well against Dundee United. Goal in the semi, winner at Tannadice, 4 goals in the 2 cup ties. To anyone with functioning eyes, he was the better player then.

I have no problem with Ozy the person. His posting, though, is absolutely tiresome. Like posting at half time in the derby saying Johnson should be sacked etc. Its insane. If I posted half that crap, I'd get dogs abuse.

[Key West]

In a Hibs context the midfield is not as bad as it is made out to be, the trio of Newell, Doyle-Hayes and Magennis served us well, Campbell in his versatility reminds me of Ian Murray, if I do have a gripe it is with our inability to balance up on the left what we do well on the right, we've tried to plug this gap with McGeady and Mitchell unfortunately they are out injured, maybe Youan or McKirdy might be the short term answer.

[gaz1875]

His partner Joe done all the hard work.

:faf:

I've argued many a time about Gogic being underrated and you rubbished him, and posted a link to stats that was no where as bad as you made out him to be. He closed down opposition midfielders and covered defensively things these stats never showed. Our midfield has missed someone like him, and he was part of the regulars in the team that finished 3rd.

[MWHIBBIES]

:faf:

I've argued many a time about Gogic being underrated and you rubbished him, and posted a link to stats that was no where as bad as you made out him to be. He closed down opposition midfielders and covered defensively things these stats never showed. Our midfield has missed someone like him, and he was part of the regulars in the team that finished 3rd.

I've never posted saying he was rubbish. Actually liked him a lot in the start. He just could not pass the ball more than 5 yards. A huge issue for a side with any ambition.

[Tambo]

So after todays game I think Kenneh looked ok playing the DM role with good energy and won the ball back.

Newell had one of his best games in a long time and should look to build on that.

Campbell very quiet for me.

Kenneh
Newell
??

Could be our best mix of players.

[easty]

So after todays game I think Kenneh looked ok playing the DM role with good energy and won the ball back.

Newell had one of his best games in a long time and should look to build on that.

Campbell very quiet for me.

Kenneh
Newell
??

Could be our best mix of players.

It should be Kenneh, Newell and a creative attacking midfielder to sit just behind the striker. We should've signed one.

[OstKurve Hibs]

Thoughtbkenneh was ok today, he drifted out of position a few times, porto had a go at him at one point cos he was basically playin centre back wi him n hanlon.
Hope porto starts passin the ball properly soon to, he a great passer of the ball naturally, needs t cut put these big looping passes wi millions of top spin all the time, pick your moments.

[JamesHFC]

It should be Kenneh, Newell and a creative attacking midfielder to sit just behind the striker. We should've signed one.

Magennis will slot into that role comfortably when he's back. Praying he continues where he left off and can stay fit. Perhaps Mykolo can play there and that's why he was brought in?

[Callum_62]

Still no as good as the Scott Allan Dylan Tait partnership

[emoji33]

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[easty]

Magennis will slot into that role comfortably when he's back. Praying he continues where he left off and can stay fit. Perhaps Mykolo can play there and that's why he was brought in?

I'd absolutely love to have Magennis back and into the team, playing like he did at the start of last season, it'd make a huge difference to us. I just dinnae see it happening.

[CapitalGreen]

Too small sample size at the moment but so far we have conceded:

1 goal every 67 minutes Kenneh has been off the pitch (334 mins)
1 goal every 142 minutes Kenneh has been on the pitch (566 mins)

It will be interesting to see how those numbers move over the season.

[CapitalGreen]

Still no as good as the Scott Allan Dylan Tait partnership

[emoji33]

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Dylan Tait looked very impressive and is going to be a great loan signing - he played really well.

Review of Arbroath’s new signings on Pie and Bovril.

https://www.pieandbovril.com/forum/index.php?/topic/216306-the-arbroath-thread/&do=findComment&comment=15438838

[theonlywayisup]

Thought all three of our midfield had good moments today, but feel that we needed a couple of reliable midfielders to change things up. It was clear that Campbell, who was excellent today, was struggling so rightly substituted. It was also clear Newell was similarly off the pace towards the end of the game, needed to be substituted, but we didn't have anyone to put on.

That said, Newell was very good today.

[Leith Green]

I'd absolutely love to have Magennis back and into the team, playing like he did at the start of last season, it'd make a huge difference to us. I just dinnae see it happening.


If we can get kennah , newell , and macgennis playing together regularly then we could have a good quality and well balanced midfield. Youan on the left boyle obviously on the right and mckirdy centrally with nisbett and mcgeady still to throw into the mix. Hopefully in a few months time we will be in full flow 😁

[theonlywayisup]

That's another thread regarding the midfield that can be added to the list, albeit yesterday's was generally a lot more positive than the rest.

Like I have mentioned on various occasions, as proven yesterday, Campbell, Newell, JDH and Kenneh are all good players. Sometimes what they do is very good, sometimes less so. Like yesterday, the quality of their play can be quite erratic during a game.

Yesterday, IMO the midfield was bypassed for much of the 1st half. Very little of our good play came through the midfield and we seemed to focus on balls clipped down to the front three, some of which was effective. The sending off, the more space available and a rubbish Aberdeen team all contributed to our midfield having more of an effect on the game.

As a unit and as individuals, they are certainly improving. Campbell and Newell ended up having fantastic games. But my concern is that we're not creative enough against the teams that sit in. One creative midfielder could make all the difference; let's hope that Magennis returns to the team and is that player.


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.

[theonlywayisup]

Pretty evident where our problem is. We need to address the lack of quality in the midfield.

[The Modfather]

What are everyone’s thoughts on the midfield post January? Early days, but in Jeggo, Egan-Reilly and Campbell do we now have a balanced midfield that compliments each other and also allows the other areas of the team to work better than they have been?

In the summer are we looking at a replacement for Egan Reilly to complement Jeggo and Campbell? it’s time to move Magennis on but we’ll probably just have to get whatever little we can from him until his contract runs out and effectively plan without him. Think Newell could slot in at times but still see him as a good squad player than a first pick, and January seems to be showing he is dispensable.

Crazy to think it’s taken 4 or 5 windows to properly and sensibly address the midfield rather than just sign good individual midfielders and hope they work together.

[B.H.F.C]

What are everyone’s thoughts on the midfield post January? Early days, but in Jeggo, Egan-Reilly and Campbell do we now have a balanced midfield that compliments each other and also allows the other areas of the team to work better than they have been?

In the summer are we looking at a replacement for Egan Reilly to complement Jeggo and Campbell? it’s time to move Magennis on but we’ll probably just have to get whatever little we can from him until his contract runs out and effectively plan without him. Think Newell could slot in at times but still see him as a good squad player than a first pick, and January seems to be showing he is dispensable.

Crazy to think it’s taken 4 or 5 windows to properly and sensibly address the midfield rather than just sign good individual midfielders and hope they work together.

Jeggo has undoubtedly made a difference. We’ve been really solid with him and Egan-Riley in the last couple of games. Less touches on the ball but more efficient with it for me.

I thought Newell had been playing all right prior to his injury but since he went off at St Mirren we’ve not missed him at all (which won’t surprise quite a few who have never thought his influence was as great as others did and has been the case when he’s missed games in the past).

Midfield has been getting a lot of credit for the defensive improvement but the defence is far less chaotic themselves and that is also helping the midfield IMO. We look well balanced right throughout the team at the moment, to the benefit of everyone individually.

[MWHIBBIES]

Newell definitely still has his place.

Midfield isn't why we won yesterday imo. Game mostly passed midfield by. Both teams very direct.

[LewysGot2]

Newell definitely still has his place.

Midfield isn't why we won yesterday imo. Game mostly passed midfield by. Both teams very direct.

Midfield was the reason we lost the first game at Livi this season. Holt completely bossed us that day. The reason Holt was ineffective yesterday was Jeggo, Campbell and ER. They were left with one strategy...

[MWHIBBIES]

Midfield was the reason we lost the first game at Livi this season. Holt completely bossed us that day. The reason Holt was ineffective yesterday was Jeggo, Campbell and ER. They were left with one strategy...

The reason we lost at Livi was we missed dozens of chances and started the match terribly. Holt couldn't boss a kids birthday party. Our forwards let us down that day. And 2 awful moments of defending.

Midfield was fine yesterday, no complaints. Forwards made the difference.

[LewysGot2]

The reason we lost at Livi was we missed dozens of chances and started the match terribly. Holt couldn't boss a kids birthday party. Our forwards let us down that day. And 2 awful moments of defending.

Midfield was fine yesterday, no complaints. Forwards made the difference.

We will just have to disagree respectfully then. Holt was very effective at Livi in the first game, IMHO.

[CapitalGreen]

Midfield was the reason we lost the first game at Livi this season. Holt completely bossed us that day. The reason Holt was ineffective yesterday was Jeggo, Campbell and ER. They were left with one strategy...

In our previous game at Livi in August. Newell had the lowest pass completion of any Hibs starter (67%). Won 0 tackles and made 0 interceptions.

[superfurryhibby]

Midfield was the reason we lost the first game at Livi this season. Holt completely bossed us that day. The reason Holt was ineffective yesterday was Jeggo, Campbell and ER. They were left with one strategy...

Agreed, the midfield has been transformed and is now functioning as an effective unit. Jeggo reads the game and does what’s necessary. Egan-Riley looks composed and looks to move the ball forward and Campbell adds energy and directness. Hibs are maximising their strengths and the play looks less laboured and ponderous as a result.

[Paulie Walnuts]

In our previous game at Livi in August. Newell had the lowest pass completion of any Hibs starter (67%). Won 0 tackles and made 0 interceptions.

I think it was you that posted before about our record without Newell being miles better than with him with stats to back it up but this run is showing signs of it again.

We’re a better side without him in it imo.

[BoomtownHibees]

Agreed, the midfield has been transformed and is now functioning as an effective unit. Jeggo reads the game and does what’s necessary. Egan-Riley looks composed and looks to move the ball forward and Campbell adds energy and directness. Hibs are maximising their strengths and the play looks less laboured and ponderous as a result.

Agreed, midfield has got a good balance to it with those 3 all good at different aspects of the game

[Ozyhibby]

I think it was you that posted before about our record without Newell being miles better than with him with stats to back it up but this run is showing signs of it again.

We’re a better side without him in it imo.

Can’t believe it’s not obvious to everyone. Sorting out midfield has saved Lee Johnson’s job. He deserves a lot of credit for that.


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[GreenCastle]

Newell has a place in the squad but our midfield has been needing refreshed for a while.

CJ in midfield and Jeggo along with Campbells continued good form has been a massive difference.

CJ won't be here next season but we need to add similar to compliment what he does.

Unfortunately Newell like Porto gave our team a different balance - we are playing more together and as a team now.

[blackpoolhibs]

People can spout all they like about Newell doing this and Newell doing that, he just slows the bloody game down too much, and plays the easy ball sideways or backwards way too much, and dont get me on about him tracking any runner.

We have a much better balance now in that midfield, that's no suprise to me.

[LewysGot2]

In our previous game at Livi in August. Newell had the lowest pass completion of any Hibs starter (67%). Won 0 tackles and made 0 interceptions.

Yup. Chased shadows that day. As did they all.
Yesterday the midfield meant the defence did less actual defending and Livi were reduced to one tactic. The predictable one. Credit also to less mentioned Hendo. I thought he had a good 60 mins or so. He is a great technician and on the crap pitch it still showed.

[LeithMike]

People can spout all they like about Newell doing this and Newell doing that, he just slows the bloody game down too much, and plays the easy ball sideways or backwards way too much, and dont get me on about him tracking any runner.

We have a much better balance now in that midfield, that's no suprise to me.

Absolutely agree. Even thought our midfield in the cup derby of Jeggo, Stevenson and Campbell looked a lot better than when Newell played. It gives us industry. Newell is a nice footballer but makes us a significantly poorer team in the most important part of the pitch where games are decided.

It’s taken a lot of time for our managers to realise that but hopefully that is now the case and we can move forward.


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[easty]

Absolutely agree. Even thought our midfield in the cup derby of Jeggo, Stevenson and Campbell looked a lot better than when Newell played. It gives us industry. Newell is a nice footballer but makes us a significantly poorer team in the most important part of the pitch where games are decided.

It’s taken a lot of time for our managers to realise that but hopefully that is now the case and we can move forward.


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Manager to realise what? Newell is out injured, he’s not been dropped. He’ll be right back in the team.

[The Modfather]

Manager to realise what? Newell is out injured, he’s not been dropped. He’ll be right back in the team.

Back in for who and for what role?

[MWHIBBIES]

Folk acting like Newell hasn't only been missing for 2 matches.

He's been a key player in this good run.

[B.H.F.C]

I think it was you that posted before about our record without Newell being miles better than with him with stats to back it up but this run is showing signs of it again.

We’re a better side without him in it imo.

Think it might have been me, previously who posted, about our record with/without him.

20/21 - 6 league games missed. We won 5 and lost 1.
21/22 - 11 league games missed. We won 4, lost 3 and drew 4.
22/23 - 2 league games missed. We’ve won 2.

Never included 19/20 season as he was in and out the team that year but has basically been an automatic pick in the middle of the park since.

To me, that clearly shows that we rarely miss Newell when he’s not available, if nothing else. He certainly doesn’t merit the indispensable place in the team he’s had when available for me (and I say that whilst acknowledging he’d been doing all right in the games leading up to his injury).

Think the freshness has helped us in the last couple of games if nothing else.

[BILLYHIBS]

Folk acting like Newell hasn't only been missing for 2 matches.

He's been a key player in this good run.

3 wins and 2 draws since 0-3 at Tiny

Looking forward to seeing him unleashed creatively further forward now we have decent holding midfielders

[Fergus52]

Worst midfield performance I've seen us play against rangers.

Folk can get excited about CJ jeggo and Campbell running about and making tackles but they're all terrible on the ball.

Newell and magennis back in the team as soon as possible for me.

I'd take a player being guilty of slowing the ball down sometimes any day of the week over have a midfield who ***** their pants and punt it as soon as an opposition player is within 5 yards.

Posters talking nonsense about our midfield balance having had improved when in reality against livi and Killie the midfield was bypassed completely with all our good play coming down the wings or from long balls.

[MWHIBBIES]

That's that. Joe back in please. At least he'll get close enough to foul someone

[A Hi-Bee]

What ****in midfield?

[The Modfather]

Not a game to be singling the midfield out IMO. I genuinely don’t think I give anyone pass marks. That said if any were dropped for Magennis, Newell or JDH, based solely on tonight, they couldn’t complain.

[PH91]

Worst midfield performance I've seen us play against rangers.

Folk can get excited about CJ jeggo and Campbell running about and making tackles but they're all terrible on the ball.

Newell and magennis back in the team as soon as possible for me.

I'd take a player being guilty of slowing the ball down sometimes any day of the week over have a midfield who ***** their pants and punt it as soon as an opposition player is within 5 yards.

Posters talking nonsense about our midfield balance having had improved when in reality against livi and Killie the midfield was bypassed completely with all our good play coming down the wings or from long balls.

Absolutely bang on.

[The Tubs]

Newell in and CJ at right back for Parkhead please.

[LancsHibs]

Folk calling for Joe Newall back into the team, just goes to show how poor our midfield is. JN has been proving to be not good enough for years now.

[MWHIBBIES]

Folk calling for Joe Newall back into the team, just goes to show how poor our midfield is. JN has been proving to be not good enough for years now.

Regardless, he's our best midfielder so nothing else really matters. We're better with him.

[easty]

Folk calling for Joe Newall back into the team, just goes to show how poor our midfield is. JN has been proving to be not good enough for years now.

Newell has always looked a good player to me.

[B.H.F.C]

Regardless, he's our best midfielder so nothing else really matters. We're better with him.

But we’re not. Results don’t suffer when he’s not there.

He makes no difference tonight (that’s not a dig at him because nobody would have when the other 10 were totally off it).

[Paulie Walnuts]

But we’re not. Results don’t suffer when he’s not there.

He makes no difference tonight (that’s not a dig at him because nobody would have when the other 10 were totally off it).

:agree:

Results are better without him in the team. That’s not the signs of someone who’s your best midfielder.

[Iain G]

But we’re not. Results don’t suffer when he’s not there.

He makes no difference tonight (that’s not a dig at him because nobody would have when the other 10 were totally off it).

He would have put a foot on the ball and held on to possession.

[CapitalGreen]

People saying Newell would have made a difference as if he wasn’t on the pitch for our previous 3 old firm ties when we conceded 13 goals.

[The Modfather]

Have we stumbled upon a combination to see us to the end of the season? Jeggo, JDH & Newell.

It’s one game, and a derby where it’s more frenetic and a battle so a different challenge than against someone like St Johnston next week where the onus is on us to create. Any, or all, of those 3 are as capable of being anonymous next week as they were good today.

Jeggo doing the dirty work and the basics well. JDH, who I thought was excellent, particularly as the game went on. That battle he won against two Jambos, emerging with the ball and driving 20 yards up the pitch was like the days of McGinn. Newell, no one can question his technical ability but it often doesn’t translate into impacting a game the deeper he is.

Did we stumble upon something today? Or is it just as likely to be another false dawn? Harsh on Campbell, who I’m still not 100% convinced by, but he is possibly our most effective midfielder despite not actually being our best midfielder. Is it a better balance with the other 3?

History probably suggests this combination will work for a period before falling off a cliff and a new combination needing tried though.

[tamig]

I wouldn’t change anything for next week. That starting eleven deserve another shot imo. Jeggo was very poor in the last two games but much better today and JDH and Newell were both outstanding. Either one could have been MOTM for me.

[theonlywayisup]

The midfield needs major overhaul - where have we heard that before.

Can't believe that at one stage tonight we had Newell, JDH and Campbell in midfield, when two years ago it was deemed not good enough. How many times! Add in Levitt and Jeggo, plus Henderson and we've a really average to poor midfield combination.

Individually, I think they are okay, but as a collective unit just not good enough.

[MacBean]

I wouldn’t change anything for next week. That starting eleven deserve another shot imo. Jeggo was very poor in the last two games but much better today and JDH and Newell were both outstanding. Either one could have been MOTM for me.

So you’d play Rocky in front of fish and melk in front of boyle?

Edit - ignore me, Forgot this was the midfield thread!

[Allant1981]

I wouldn’t change anything for next week. That starting eleven deserve another shot imo. Jeggo was very poor in the last two games but much better today and JDH and Newell were both outstanding. Either one could have been MOTM for me.

JDH was rank

[Eyrie]

JDH was rank

Doyle-Hayes is very frustrating. Every once in a while he'll have a good game that makes you think he should stay, then he'll have several games like today where you wish he was already gone.

[theonlywayisup]

Doyle-Hayes is very frustrating. Every once in a while he'll have a good game that makes you think he should stay, then he'll have several games like today where you wish he was already gone.

I had a wee laugh when someone on here described him as a box-to-box player. He's been poor IMO apart from the odd game.

[B.H.F.C]

Doyle-Hayes is very frustrating. Every once in a while he'll have a good game that makes you think he should stay, then he'll have several games like today where you wish he was already gone.

He’s just put in the kind of performance that sums him up. Shows some promise then that. He had the jersey, he had the chance to make it his and he’s just blown it.

[jakeshibs]

JDH was rank

JDH is not good enough for hibs

[Stokesy's on fire]

Did anyone else think Levitt looked like he was hiding?

[The Modfather]

The midfield needs major overhaul - where have we heard that before.

Can't believe that at one stage tonight we had Newell, JDH and Campbell in midfield, when two years ago it was deemed not good enough. How many times! Add in Levitt and Jeggo, plus Henderson and we've a really average to poor midfield combination.

Individually, I think they are okay, but as a collective unit just not good enough.

Why do we think the defensive midfield/McGeough position is the route and solution to all our midfield issues? In the last 3 windows we have signed Kenneh, Jeggo & now Levitt to fix the midfield. All while hoping various combinations of Newell, JDH & Campbell work. Interspersed with throwing Porteous and Egan-Reilly in there in the same defensive midfield position.

[HendoDelivered]

Did anyone else think Levitt looked like he was hiding?

Think he struggled badly, game passed him by. Playing far too deep as well, IMO. He will come good though, I have no doubts.

[Hibee Mac]

The thing with JDH is that the only good games I can remember him having are against teams where we have very little of the ball and he is always clipping at the opponent's heels giving them no time on the ball.

He then gets a start against a team where we have more of the ball and he isn't good enough. He's just not that good tbh, a useful squad player for playing Celtic and rangers but not much else tbh.

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[flash]

Did anyone else think Levitt looked like he was hiding?

Ffs.

[Paulie Walnuts]

I had a wee laugh when someone on here described him as a box-to-box player. He's been poor IMO apart from the odd game.

That is the worst description of JDH I think I’ve ever heard.

[supermcginn]

JDH is not good enough for hibs

He has much more ability than Campbell does!

[theonlywayisup]

He has much more ability than Campbell does!

No he doesn't! That is rubbish. Campbell scores goals.

[Stokesy's on fire]

Ffs.

....

[supermcginn]

No he doesn't! That is rubbish. Campbell scores goals.

Technique wise JDH is streets ahead, Campbell was left out the team last 6 games last season and after seeing him tonight he will be warming the bench again soon. A couple of tap ins in a friendly won't change that.

[Solonleith1]

Did anyone else think Levitt looked like he was hiding?

He was played out of position. Looked like he'd been told to sit which is not his bag

[Hibernian Verse]

Technique wise JDH is streets ahead, Campbell was left out the team last 6 games last season and after seeing him tonight he will be warming the bench again soon. A couple of tap ins in a friendly won't change that.

He was terrible tonight. Hope he comes good again this season though. One of our own etc.

[Tyler Durden]

He was played out of position. Looked like he'd been told to sit which is not his bag

And yet that is where Dundee Utd tried to play him last season and he’s started last 2 games for us.

Utd thought he could be their Calum McGregor and have no holding midfielder. Hopefully we realise a bit quicker that he’s better further forward.

[7Hero]

2 years to fix a midfield !

It might be a few how more with this manager, recruitment team and DOF !

[jakeshibs]

He has much more ability than Campbell does!

oh dear JDH is a poor player

[Bridge hibs]

oh dear JDH is a poor player

Nowhere near a poor player

[CockneyRebel]

Nowhere near a poor player


My concern with JDH is that he seems to lose the plot too easily and too often and then becomes reckless in the tackle. He was a bit lucky to stay on the park IMO yesterday and most folk were not expecting to see him to come out for the second half.

[tonyrougier123]

He has much more ability than Campbell does!

Next joke.

[B.H.F.C]

Nowhere near a poor player

Last night summed him up. Had a chance to really make a place in the team his own and didn’t. He wasn’t alone in performing poorly but for a supposedly good player it happens far too often.

[Bridge hibs]

Last night summed him up. Had a chance to really make a place in the team his own and didn’t. He wasn’t alone in performing poorly but for a supposedly good player it happens far too often.

Still not a poor player though which is my point

[Tyler Durden]

Still not a poor player though which is my point

Ok but he's a player who has performed poorly in 75%+ of his appearances for Hibs.

As someone else pointed out, he's had some excellent games when he's simply asked to be a spoiler against tough opposition. When we want to dominate a game, he really struggles again and again.

[B.H.F.C]

Still not a poor player though which is my point

It’s a debatable point IMO.

You occasionally see something from him and think you’re on to something. Majority of his time here he’s ranged from average to poor with the odd good game thrown in, generally when we have less of the ball.

[Tyler Durden]

Personally for me a midfield 3 of Jeggo, Newell and Levitt would work well.

I think Campbell is often given almost a free role, to make his late runs and support the number 9. It means he's doing very little in midfield and he's never been a player to find the mythical "pockets of space" and thread passes. Getting into the box is the depth of his contribution so if he's not scoring he's a wasted jersey.

If we have Jeggo sitting and we ask Levitt and Newell to get up and down and support the forwards, we'll be much better balanced IMO. They can do a bit of everything.

[ErinGoBraghHFC]

Personally for me a midfield 3 of Jeggo, Newell and Levitt would work well.

I think Campbell is often given almost a free role, to make his late runs and support the number 9. It means he's doing very little in midfield and he's never been a player to find the mythical "pockets of space" and thread passes. Getting into the box is the depth of his contribution so if he's not scoring he's a wasted jersey.

If we have Jeggo sitting and we ask Levitt and Newell to get up and down and support the forwards, we'll be much better balanced IMO. They can do a bit of everything.

Agree 100%, shouldn’t need to play Jeggo against part timers though


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[Tyler Durden]

Agree 100%, shouldn’t need to play Jeggo against part timers though


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Totally - no excuse for yesterday.

But some people think we our midfield is a massive problem. I don't see it that way.

[Smartie]

Ok but he's a player who has performed poorly in 75%+ of his appearances for Hibs.

As someone else pointed out, he's had some excellent games when he's simply asked to be a spoiler against tough opposition. When we want to dominate a game, he really struggles again and again.

He's not played poorly in 75%+ of his appearances for Hibs.

There have been a few stinkers, that's not in doubt, and there can be no defending his performance yesterday.

But he's put in some excellent performances and the vast majority have been acceptable.

I have a problem with a player who has such a big gap between how well and how poorly he can play, and I have many more doubts about his reliability than I had 48 hours ago but I don't think JDH is pish at all.

Whether or not he's part of any sort of solution in our midfield is certainly open to argument.

(You could arguably cut and paste the above about Campbell and Newell as well, possibly even Jeggo).

[Tambo]

Very frustrating performance in the first half from the midfield yesterday, I think there was only one moment where the ball got to Levitt and JDH which led us to getting the ball forward in a half decent area of the pitch.

Plenty of times the ball would work its way out wide missing out the midfield, leading to Youan having to try do it all on his own.

Add in the long balls from Rocky and Hanlon which most would miss the target anyway again missing out the midfield.

Seen someone saying maybe the players where hiding and not wanting the ball which could be the case.

I said in a different thread about there will be times where we rely on the wide players to much.

I think we need a CAM in asap. I honestly think we needed an upgrade on Jeggo and a CAM as a midfield of Levitt Newell Campbell could be in for a long season when the going gets tough.

No knock on Joe Newell who for me is the first midfielder on the teamsheet.

[MWHIBBIES]

Newell and a few 5/10 players.

[hibee-boys]

Personally for me a midfield 3 of Jeggo, Newell and Levitt would work well.

I think Campbell is often given almost a free role, to make his late runs and support the number 9. It means he's doing very little in midfield and he's never been a player to find the mythical "pockets of space" and thread passes. Getting into the box is the depth of his contribution so if he's not scoring he's a wasted jersey.

If we have Jeggo sitting and we ask Levitt and Newell to get up and down and support the forwards, we'll be much better balanced IMO. They can do a bit of everything.

Spot on. We need midfielders who can get on the ball and dictate the game, Campbell’s odd goal masks the fact that he’s a limited footballer. Not comfortable with the ball in possession nor creates much, if anything, from open play. I’m not doubting his effort but we need midfielder who are far more dynamic on the ball.

[theonlywayisup]

Personally for me a midfield 3 of Jeggo, Newell and Levitt would work well.

I think Campbell is often given almost a free role, to make his late runs and support the number 9. It means he's doing very little in midfield and he's never been a player to find the mythical "pockets of space" and thread passes. Getting into the box is the depth of his contribution so if he's not scoring he's a wasted jersey.

If we have Jeggo sitting and we ask Levitt and Newell to get up and down and support the forwards, we'll be much better balanced IMO. They can do a bit of everything.

The debate seems to be select any 3 or 4 from 6, but IMO none of the 6 at at the standard we need. It needs a major overhaul and that's been clear for a number of seasons now.

My frustration at those critical of Campbell, is that at least he gets into the box, he at least tries to score goals and at least he does score. Limited, or not, he scores goals, very few of which are tap-ins as someone mentioned earlier.

[Paulie Walnuts]

The debate seems to be select any 3 or 4 from 6, but IMO none of the 6 at at the standard we need. It needs a major overhaul and that's been clear for a number of seasons now.

My frustration at those critical of Campbell, is that at least he gets into the box, he at least tries to score goals and at least he does score. Limited, or not, he scores goals, very few of which are tap-ins as someone mentioned earlier.

He does score but he’s pretty poor at the other stuff. He scored in 5 games last season. In the games he wasn’t scoring he generally wasn’t doing nearly enough imo.

[JimBHibees]

He does score but he’s pretty poor at the other stuff. He scored in 5 games last season. In the games he wasn’t scoring he generally wasn’t doing nearly enough imo.

Kind of agree with that to an extent think a lot of his closing down and pressing work goes a little unnoticed and would assume he covers more distance than other midfielders in the team. Only real goal threat from midfield.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Kind of agree with that to an extent think a lot of his closing down and pressing work goes a little unnoticed and would assume he covers more distance than other midfielders in the team. Only real goal threat from midfield.

I might be wrong but I’m sure it’s been posted here that Newell covers the most ground. CapitalGreen would be your poster for that sort of stuff!

[The Wireless]

I’d have Kenneh and JDH. No one else is good enough or wants it enough.

You must be an FC Edinburgh fan?

[Eyrie]

Alarming to realise that this thread is almost a year old and we're still struggling to find a balanced midfield after three transfer windows (summer 22, winter 23, summer 23).

[CapitalGreen]

Alarming to realise that this thread is almost a year old and we're still struggling to find a balanced midfield after three transfer windows (summer 22, winter 23, summer 23).

We’ve struggled to find a balanced midfield since Summer 2018.

[SHODAN]

Alarming to realise that this thread is almost a year old and we're still struggling to find a balanced midfield after three transfer windows (summer 22, winter 23, summer 23).

Hibs are contractually only allowed one good midfield every ten years; still a few more to go. Sorry.

[theonlywayisup]

Alarming to realise that this thread is almost a year old and we're still struggling to find a balanced midfield after three transfer windows (summer 22, winter 23, summer 23).

Probably because we gave 3/4 year deals to players who, IMO, are just not (consistently) good enough.

[number9dream]

Until Boyle is fit enough to start, might we better playing with four in midfield and Youan free to support a number 9?
Campbell can bomb on, with Levitt right, Newell left and Jeggo holding the fort at the base of the ‘diamond’.
Onus is on full-backs to provide width, which could be where this idea falls apart…

[Smartie]

Until Boyle is fit enough to start, might we better playing with four in midfield and Youan free to support a number 9?
Campbell can bomb on, with Levitt right, Newell left and Jeggo holding the fort at the base of the ‘diamond’.
Onus is on full-backs to provide width, which could be where this idea falls apart…

That probably depends on what Obita offers. Much as I love and will defend Lewis, that role is probably a big ask for him at 36.

I’ve often wondered about a return to the the diamond though. It’s served us quite well in the distant past and will often be a semi solution to our glaring problems.

Your team makes as much sense using our current players as any other I see suggested.

Am I right in thinking this is what Eddie May reverted to immediately post Hecky, to great effect?

[sauzeelegod]

If we’re playing a 433 I’d like to see Jeggo deep with Newell and Levitt either side of him.

If it’s a 4231 I’d prefer Levitt and Newell as the 2 with Campbell as the 10.

[sauzeelegod]

Until Boyle is fit enough to start, might we better playing with four in midfield and Youan free to support a number 9?
Campbell can bomb on, with Levitt right, Newell left and Jeggo holding the fort at the base of the ‘diamond’.
Onus is on full-backs to provide width, which could be where this idea falls apart…

Quite like this idea. Miller and Obita would be bombing up and down and Jeggo is good at dropping in to cover

[The Modfather]

If Levitt is the only midfielder we sign, and he is replacing Jeggo, I don’t think we’ll notice any improvement in midfield. We might keep the ball better with Levitt than Jeggo, but for the 3rd/4th/5th window we won’t begin to address any of the glaring flaws in our midfield and will be left once more hoping a combination from Newell, JDH & Campbell somehow come good,

It must be me that’s out of touch with football as I can’t understand what it successive managers are trying to do with our midfield, or what they want from it.

[Trinity Hibee]

It must be me that’s out of touch with football as I can’t understand what it successive managers are trying to do with our midfield, or what they want from it.

It’s not just you

[Smartie]

If Levitt is the only midfielder we sign, and he is replacing Jeggo, I don’t think we’ll notice any improvement in midfield. We might keep the ball better with Levitt than Jeggo, but for the 3rd/4th/5th window we won’t begin to address any of the glaring flaws in our midfield and will be left once more hoping a combination from Newell, JDH & Campbell somehow come good,

It must be me that’s out of touch with football as I can’t understand what it successive managers are trying to do with our midfield, or what they want from it.

Exactly how I see it.

Levitt may be part of some sort of solution but a straight swap of Levitt for Jeggo is 100% not going to cut it without anything else.

Arguably it weakens it still.

[HendoDelivered]

Exactly how I see it.

Levitt may be part of some sort of solution but a straight swap of Levitt for Jeggo is 100% not going to cut it without anything else.

Arguably it weakens it still.

Agreed. We need to sign another *quality* DM or box to box CM

[Paulie Walnuts]

Agreed. We need to sign another *quality* DM or box to box CM

A box to box would be the key for me.

[The Modfather]

Agreed. We need to sign another *quality* DM or box to box CM

A DM would be the last position I’d be buying. We seem to be stockpiling them, or players who do a similar role but slightly higher up the pitch. We’ve got Levitt, Jeggo, Newell, JDH, Delfierre & Kenneh all doing similar-ish roles. Campbell & Henderson are the only different types of midfielders we have and there’s questions about their quality/effectiveness.

[theonlywayisup]

Still hope that we're bringing in a midfielder or two and not using a 6-1 victory against a poor side mask issues that were IMO still obvious last night.

I feel our midfield players are like marmite, you either love them individually or hate them (though maybe hate is too harsh a word).

I've been impressed by Josh Campbell's development since the dark days of the Maloney season, when even then I thought he's a good player playing in a poor team and wrong position. Last night was a bit like his time at Hibernian FC. A dodgy start, with misplaced passes, but applied himself well, grabbed two goals and was always our most advanced midfielder. Not convinced he was Man of the Match, but a decent display from Josh.

Joe Newell - what a good player he is! His pass & cross for the 1st two goals were excellent, as was his energy throughout the game until he was rested after the tie had been won.

JDH - he was very poor IMO in the first leg and he was the midfielder I was least impressed with last night. Yes, he's got loads of energy and breaks up play well, but I feel the impact he has in games when we've got control is not what I'd expect and I feel he's regressing as a footballer.

As I write the above, can't believe two years on, our midfield trio is Campbell, Newell and JDH. That can't be our midfield trio for the season. What about the rest? Thought Levitt and McAllister did well when they came on, but the game had been won by them. Also, we had Jeggo and Henderson on the bench, but unused. However, I don't think we've the quality in midfield that we need to dominate the teams we should be in the SPFL.

IMO I feel we we've good players that will battle well in many games, but I don't think we've the quality to unlock the defensively minded teams that come to Easter Road.

[allezsauzee]

I think we have a better balance to the team when Jeggo is in the team. He's a bit slow and can get caught in possession as a result but he protects the defence and allows the likes of Joe Newell to play further up the park. I think Joe is a completely different player when he's allow to do that. Jimmy also seems to be a very good organiser. For those old enough to remember Neil Orr In Alex Miller's team, he was similar in that he never looked a great footballer but made everyone else play better and we often struggled without him.

[Brightside]

JDH was excellent last night. From his first tackle. Totally bossed the area. Levitt was good when he came on but for me it showed how he’d be wasted further up the pitch. He’s got to be on the ball as much as possible. Playing deeper will let him dictate the play.

[theonlywayisup]

Our midfield is just not good enough. Don't offer enough creativity, not support to the defence. It needs to be sorted.

However, 18 months on we're still playing Campbell, Newell and JDH.

[Leith Green]

Thought our midfield individually showed their levels today. Its one thing looking good against a team of andorran semi pros and amateurs..Today backed up what i see in doyle hayes and campbell. Both are below the level required to be in a successful Hibs midfield. Campbells inability to take a ball in and turn / move forward is so frustrating. Both players i will never criticise for lack of effort or endeavour. But their lack of quality is so obvious. I see a player in Newell when he is more advanced , bit again today he is having to drop deep to get on the ball , everything else getting bypassed because our midfield is so shote

[Smartie]

It’s an absolute shambles.

We were murdered in midfield first half, which then made all the other players look poor.

Jeggo may or may not be the answer but we looked much better when he came into the side last season. Until we get round to actually fixing the midfield he needs to be the first name on our team sheet.

You can pick the other names in midfield out a hat.

I must admit I’m not impressed by Levitt. He looks like someone who should be good once they get fit but I don’t know if he has extra fitness or another gear. He just looks occasionally elegant, often incredibly sloppy in and out of possession to me.

[hibee-boys]

Can we please call back any of the alleged teams showing interest in Campbell and take whatever they offer so we can try and get O’Hara in from St Mirren, I’d actually take any of their midfielders over him or JDH.

[Onion]

Our midfield is just not good enough. Don't offer enough creativity, not support to the defence. It needs to be sorted.

However, 18 months on we're still playing Campbell, Newell and JDH.

Truly incredible the we're still watching these 3 players, somehow expecting things to be different. The inability of Hibs management to replace 2 or even 3 of these guys is at the heart of why we're in for yet another season of disappointment and struggle.

[Tambo]

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.

[B.H.F.C]

To play that three is a disgrace.

We were better, irrespective of his faults, with Jeggo in the team last season. He allowed us to get more out of the others. Reverting to the three that were the three when the last two managers went is lunacy.

JDH has started the season as a first pick six months after we were trying to get him out the door. And he’s a nothing player. Doesn’t score, doesn’t create, doesn’t dictate a game. Does foul and get booked a lot though.

Nothing Johnson does makes much sense to me. He is literally going back the way with some of the decisions he’s making.

[The Modfather]

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.

[JohnM1875]

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 the midfield anyway shelling balls into the corners up top.

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

[Hiber-nation]

To play that three is a disgrace.

We were better, irrespective of his faults, with Jeggo in the team last season. He allowed us to get more out of the others. Reverting to the three that were the three when the last two managers went is lunacy.

JDH has started the season as a first pick six months after we were trying to get him out the door. And he’s a nothing player. Doesn’t score, doesn’t create, doesn’t dictate a game. Does foul and get booked a lot though.

Nothing Johnson does makes much sense to me. He is literally going back the way with some of the decisions he’s making.

Absolutely. Doesn't do enough with the ball, doesn't do enough defensively, doesn't create, doesn't score. The definition of bottom 6 bang average and somehow he seems a nailed on starter again.