Tavares

[SHODAN]

Good to see him back.

[hibee-boys]

Fresh start for him which can only be a good thing. I hope he takes the opportunity to impress and is able to make a positive contribution to the first team squad. However, he’ll need to show more than he has based on previous appearances, albeit limited minutes thus far.

[BILLYHIBS]

We all want all Hibs players to do well

Hope he kicks on will be like a new signing

Good luck to him

[B.H.F.C]

Based on what I saw from him before, I still think it’ll be a surprise if he makes a real impact. I sincerely hope he does though as we have no real cover for Youan and Boyle otherwise.

[theonlywayisup]

Yes, looks like he needs his confidence building up. Hopefully that happens in the next three home games.

[eastmainsmsh]

There is a player there with the assistant manager knowing Jair hopefully he can come good

[Hibbyradge]

I'm hopeful and doubtful. I don't quite know the weighting between the two, but probably in equal measure.

[Since452]

Would love to see Tavares come good. Hopefully he grabs this opportunity of a clean slate.

[thebausburst]

Nothing against the lad, but there was a reason (having seen him play) he was told he was free to leave (and couldn’t or wouldn’t get another club) he is simply not good enough. No doubt get the usual deluge of happy clapper replies shouting me down but imo the guy would struggle to hold down a first team place in the championship.

[WeeRussell]

While he didn’t set the heather alight, his limited chances mainly came at a time when the team was struggling and many of our players weren’t impressing. Some of these other players have now shown form and found themselves starting, and I think criticism of Jair probably ended up overstated because of assumptions around LJ not fancying him/freezing him out etc.

He could be useful for us yet.

Or not.

[huggie1875]

Nothing against the lad, but there was a reason (having seen him play) he was told he was free to leave (and couldn’t or wouldn’t get another club) he is simply not good enough. No doubt get the usual deluge of happy clapper replies shouting me down but imo the guy would struggle to hold down a first team place in the championship.


so you know better than the new management team and they’re just happy clappers too 🤔?

[blackpoolhibs]

Nothing against the lad, but there was a reason (having seen him play) he was told he was free to leave (and couldn’t or wouldn’t get another club) he is simply not good enough. No doubt get the usual deluge of happy clapper replies shouting me down but imo the guy would struggle to hold down a first team place in the championship.
I thought he was awful virtually every time he played, but as Monty said, everyone gets a clean slate, hopefully he gets something from him the last one couldn't.

[bingo70]

While he didn’t set the heather alight, his limited chances mainly came at a time when the team was struggling and many of our players weren’t impressing. Some of these other players have now shown form and found themselves starting, and I think criticism of Jair probably ended up overstated because of assumptions around LJ not fancying him/freezing him out etc.

He could be useful for us yet.

Or not.

Agreed.

A wingers game is all about confidence and I don’t think he had any last season.

From the outside looking in I don’t think he was managed very well, throwing him into games where everyone struggled, then giving him the odd brief sun appearance before banishing him from the squad completely.

I don’t know if he’ll be any good or not but I don’t think we were ever likely to see the best of him using him the way we did last season. I normally take the clean slate chat from a new manager with a pinch of salt but in his case, with our new assistant manager knowing him from Benfica I think he really could benefit from the change.

Time will tell but I thought he made an encouraging start to turning things around when he came on at the weekend.

[Unseen work]

He’s nowhere near as bad as made out, his reported wage and reputation I think has clouded people’s judgement, including the old management team who just refused to play him to try force him out.

Last pre season he shows flashes of skill. His first competitive game he came on in the cup and in one touch scooped/flicked it over the defender - ridiculous skill.

St Johnstone and Livi were his first 2 games and in the first he created a good amount of chances with his direct running in behind, picked out constantly by Cabraja. The second game he was poor on that pitch, but he was no worse than anyone else.

Since then he’s hardly got a sniff, he came on against st Johnstone again and won a pen which was later called offside, again as a result of his threatening run in behind.

The game that made me think there is 100% something there was against Raith during the Christmas break last year. He was our best player by a mile and skinned his man repeatedly, going outside and inside.

Johnson said himself there’s been friendly games he’s the best player on the park but for some reason never gave him a chance?

Sunday there I thought his movement was again good looking to get in behind but wasn’t picked out, also had a couple of good touches.

The club and Johnson piled the pressure on him, not Jair himself.

Let’s get behind him and give him a chance

[B.H.F.C]

Nothing against the lad, but there was a reason (having seen him play) he was told he was free to leave (and couldn’t or wouldn’t get another club) he is simply not good enough. No doubt get the usual deluge of happy clapper replies shouting me down but imo the guy would struggle to hold down a first team place in the championship.

There are hundreds of examples of players looking miles off it but a new manager with a different approach etc managing to turn things round. Happens all the time. It’s not to say it will happen for Tavares but the new management team clearly see something in him.

[Northernhibee]

I’d absolutely love it if he could come good and play a part with us. I remember seeing Doidge and Newell under Heckingbottom and thinking that they were dreadful, now look at them. Even Doidge at the start of last season looking finished, and now look at him.

Jair, Melkersen (if he returns), Kenneh (likewise), Delferriere, Marshall - they all get a clean slate for me - I trust that our new manager knows how to get the best out of a player.

[Pretty Boy]

Was there a reason he was essentially publicly shunned?

I remember him coming off the bench at Tannadice last season and having a bit of a shocker but I'm sure he still made the squad a few times after that.

Pre season came and he was playing in Berwick whilst the 1st team squad were in Spain. I'm guessing it went deeper than looking off it when he was in the team, he started games at the beginning of last season so clearly wasn't seen as a development project. He didn't really deliver on the park but that could go for a fair few members of the squad last season and none of them were 'punished' quite so publicly. There must be more to it.

[NAE NOOKIE]

New day, new start. Every player has to think that and like others I wonder if having a coach that not only knows him, but also speaks his language, might be just what he needed.

Montgomery clearly seems to be a manager prepared to give everybody a chance, he proved that at CCM if reports are accurate.

[WeeRussell]

He’s nowhere near as bad as made out, his reported wage and reputation I think has clouded people’s judgement, including the old management team who just refused to play him to try force him out.

Last pre season he shows flashes of skill. His first competitive game he came on in the cup and in one touch scooped/flicked it over the defender - ridiculous skill.

St Johnstone and Livi were his first 2 games and in the first he created a good amount of chances with his direct running in behind, picked out constantly by Cabraja. The second game he was poor on that pitch, but he was no worse than anyone else.

Since then he’s hardly got a sniff, he came on against st Johnstone again and won a pen which was later called offside, again as a result of his threatening run in behind.

The game that made me think there is 100% something there was against Raith during the Christmas break last year. He was our best player by a mile and skinned his man repeatedly, going outside and inside.

Johnson said himself there’s been friendly games he’s the best player on the park but for some reason never gave him a chance?

Sunday there I thought his movement was again good looking to get in behind but wasn’t picked out, also had a couple of good touches.

The club and Johnson piled the pressure on him, not Jair himself.

Let’s get behind him and give him a chance

Good post

[bingo70]

Was there a reason he was essentially publicly shunned?

I remember him coming off the bench at Tannadice last season and having a bit of a shocker but I'm sure he still made the squad a few times after that.

Pre season came and he was playing in Berwick whilst the 1st team squad were in Spain. I'm guessing it went deeper than looking off it when he was in the team, he started games at the beginning of last season so clearly wasn't seen as a development project. He didn't really deliver on the park but that could go for a fair few members of the squad last season and none of them were 'punished' quite so publicly. There must be more to it.

I think it could just be because Johnson wanted to force him out the door and off the wage bill.

[matty_f]

I’d absolutely love it if he could come good and play a part with us. I remember seeing Doidge and Newell under Heckingbottom and thinking that they were dreadful, now look at them. Even Doidge at the start of last season looking finished, and now look at him.

Jair, Melkersen (if he returns), Kenneh (likewise), Delferriere, Marshall - they all get a clean slate for me - I trust that our new manager knows how to get the best out of a player.


Totally agree. There’s still an outside chance that the much maligned transfer window from last summer actually pays off, albeit it looks unlikely at this stage.

If Monty can get a tune out of the players it listed, who all have age and potential on their side (Marshall excepted) then it could save or make us a lot of money.

[overdrive]

Could part of the issue with him previously be a language barrier, i.e. not clear on what was being asked of him? If so, hopefully having a Portuguese coach will help. My only worry is he seems quite lightweight.

[bingo70]

Could part of the issue with him previously be a language barrier, i.e. not clear on what was being asked of him? If so, hopefully having a Portuguese coach will help. My only worry is he seems quite lightweight.

I noticed at the weekend, he was getting instructions from the great Raimundo and Obita (I think) was getting his from Montgomery. I know it’s just a small thing but that must make such a difference to someone like Jair who will likely have been a bag of nerves on Saturday.

Ultimately having a coach speaking the same language won’t be the deciding factor if he ends up being successful or not but it might just tip the scales a little bit if it helps him relax.

[007]

Could part of the issue with him previously be a language barrier, i.e. not clear on what was being asked of him? If so, hopefully having a Portuguese coach will help. My only worry is he seems quite lightweight.

Wouldn't be a surprise if there had been a language barrier and not just with Jair as this half-time team talk shows.

https://youtu.be/0UJZF5iRhNg?si=XswrZDVU53p5y4sS

[Centre Hawf]

He was definitely uninspiring when he played last season, but he's a young lad and needs support to settle into the game. If you're going to sign someone who has pretty much zero senior minutes in his home country let alone to come make an impact in ours, you need to be patient and I feel like the previous regime was less than patient with him. I think while some of us probably have an opinion on him from what we've seen we can probably all agree that we've not actually seen a lot either.

Hope he turns it around.

[Donegal Hibby]

I'm all for seeing Jair getting a clean slate and a chance at us , I'd also like to see melkersen get a chance too . Never felt playing him on the right really suited him TBH and with Monty playing two upfront I think that would suit him too Still think there's a player there.

[bingo70]

I'm all for seeing Jair getting a clean slate and a chance at us , I'd also like to see melkersen get a chance too . Never felt playing him on the right really suited him TBH and with Monty playing two upfront I think that would suit him too Still think there's a player there.

Same could be said for McKirdy.

Signed him as a striker and played him as a winger.

[badabing67]

Totally agree. There’s still an outside chance that the much maligned transfer window from last summer actually pays off, albeit it looks unlikely at this stage.

If Monty can get a tune out of the players it listed, who all have age and potential on their side (Marshall excepted) then it could save or make us a lot of money.


As well as some others such as Tait and MacKay, contracts are starting to run down on a lot of players now. My fear is that a few of them will come good and we could end up losing out.. Not seen anything of Tait since the Norwich friendly. But I thought Mackay played well and scored an excellent goal that got chopped off against Bournemouth, in the pre-season friendly. Joe Newell was co-commentator for that match and from his comments he seemed to rate Dan MacKay. I don't think either of them have had a fair crack at it. But like I said not sure how well they are playing now or if they are even getting a game atm. MacKay in particular seemed to have a strong finish to last season, genuinely thought he was going to kick on. Gutted for him tbh

[B.H.F.C]

As well as some others such as Tait and MacKay, contracts are starting to run down on a lot of players now. My fear is that a few of them will come good and we could end up losing out.. Not seen anything of Tait since the Norwich friendly. But I thought Mackay played well and scored an excellent goal that got chopped off against Bournemouth, in the pre-season friendly. Joe Newell was co-commentator for that match and from his comments he seemed to rate Dan MacKay. I don't think either of them have had a fair crack at it. But like I said not sure how well they are playing now or if they are even getting a game atm. MacKay in particular seemed to have a strong finish to last season, genuinely thought he was going to kick on. Gutted for him tbh

MacKay is currently struggling to get a game at Livingston, having had some fairly ordinary loan spells, and Tait is back playing in League 1. Appreciate they are both young but I don’t think there is much to be worrying ourselves about. I

[brog]

I've mentioned this before but I'm currently in Portugal and have a friend who's involved with the Sporting Academy. Also another who has a peripheral connection to Benfica. Both of them congratulated me when we signed Jair and said he was more highly rated at Benfica than Duk. I would love to see him make it.
Incidentally Sylvester Jasper is now playing just along the coast at Portimonense. He started yesterday in a good away win.

[Donegal Hibby]

Same could be said for McKirdy.

Signed him as a striker and played him as a winger.

I could be totally wrong here though I thought Mckirdy had played for Swindon both on the left and right sides at times and was more versatile. Though it's quite possible Mckirdy would be better played more central too .

[bingo70]

I could be totally wrong here though I thought Mckirdy had played for Swindon both on the left and right sides at times and was more versatile. Though it's quite possible Mckirdy would be better played more central too .

Swindon fan that posts on here said at the time although he had played right wing for them he wasn’t great there and all his success had come playing central with a strike partner. Sure he said as much as he loved McKirdy he couldn’t understand why we signed him when we played with central striker up front.

[Lago]

Same could be said for McKirdy.

Signed him as a striker and played him as a winger.
Correct

[S4uzee]

He came on against Ross County at home last season when we lost 0-2. I think he shot instead of crossing and Porteous went absolutely through him and his head completely dropped and it wasn’t great to see. Melkersen went over to put his arm round him and recognised it too

[Unseen work]

He came on against Ross County at home last season when we lost 0-2. I think he shot instead of crossing and Porteous went absolutely through him and his head completely dropped and it wasn’t great to see. Melkersen went over to put his arm round him and recognised it too

One of the reasons why Porteous had to leave imo.

He was guilty of slaughtering boys for trying things yet he would make more mistakes/poor decisions than them at times

[SteveHFC]

One of the reasons why Porteous had to leave imo.

He was guilty of slaughtering boys for trying things yet he would make more mistakes/poor decisions than them at times

Sure Porteous had a go at Melkersen a few times last season.

[ekhibee]

I thought he didnt really get much of a chance to show what ability he did have last season, both Melkerson and McKirdy have both had far more game time than he has. It'll be interesting to see if he has settled and developed, IMO.

[Hibby70]

Couple of lads along from me on Saturday were singing his name. He heard them and looked genuinely moved by it.

If he turns out good let's get Bojang back as well 😂

[Mango Man]

I'm all for seeing Jair getting a clean slate and a chance at us , I'd also like to see melkersen get a chance too . Never felt playing him on the right really suited him TBH and with Monty playing two upfront I think that would suit him too Still think there's a player there.

I have noticed you have a bit of an obsession with wanting Melkersen to do well, obviously we all do as Hibs fans, but what is it you have seen that makes you think he would be good for us? Was it footage from his previous club or something? Just curious as I have really struggled to see what he offers.

[Dmas]

Going to need Jair between now and Jan, Boyle and youan won’t be fit for every game and we’re short out wide, Monty’s done well involving him straight away and attempting to give the guy a bit of a confidence boost hopefully between that and the new coaches being able to communicate with him will help the guy settle and show us what he has.

Agree with comments about melkerson and mckirdy as well maybe the 2 up top will suit them much better as well both too lightweight to play as a lone central striker and not enough in their game to play on the wing, 3 much better options at the club ahead of them just now though imo

[cameronw-hfc]

Swindon fan that posts on here said at the time although he had played right wing for them he wasn’t great there and all his success had come playing central with a strike partner. Sure he said as much as he loved McKirdy he couldn’t understand why we signed him when we played with central striker up front.

Pretty much every Swindon fan I know has said the opposite, possible you've mixed it up? Harry is a winger and pretty much always has been. He can play up front like Boyle can, ie, to cover, but he's not a striker. He played most of his games for Swindon out wide.

There's also more to the Mckirdy story than meets the eye as far as I'm aware. Similar to Jair. It's not as simple as 'both crap' like some fans thought, some big fallouts behind the scenes with LJ.

[JohnM1875]

Pretty much every Swindon fan I know has said the opposite, possible you've mixed it up? Harry is a winger and pretty much always has been. He can play up front like Boyle can, ie, to cover, but he's not a striker. He played most of his games for Swindon out wide.

There's also more to the Mckirdy story than meets the eye as far as I'm aware. Similar to Jair. It's not as simple as 'both crap' like some fans thought, some big fallouts behind the scenes with LJ.

Going by transfer market, which I know isn't the most reliable, he definitely played more games in League Two as a centre forward. 32, compared to 16 RW and 14 LW. Then a smattering of games in midfield.

[BILLYHIBS]

Pretty much every Swindon fan I know has said the opposite, possible you've mixed it up? Harry is a winger and pretty much always has been. He can play up front like Boyle can, ie, to cover, but he's not a striker. He played most of his games for Swindon out wide.

There's also more to the Mckirdy story than meets the eye as far as I'm aware. Similar to Jair. It's not as simple as 'both crap' like some fans thought, some big fallouts behind the scenes with LJ.

I always thought that the issue was Harry being played as a winger when he is a striker preferably one of a two ( Doidge ) according to a Swindon fan that posts on here

[Viva_Palmeiras]

I see Mattys limbered uo practicing pronouncing his name :)

This dude must be a right laugh at parties - a Jambo probably ;)


https://youtu.be/AMfbJu41XOA?si=4_MOvrIlGKJ3fuio

[cameronw-hfc]

Going by transfer market, which I know isn't the most reliable, he definitely played more games in League Two as a centre forward. 32, compared to 16 RW and 14 LW. Then a smattering of games in midfield.

Could be that he was turned into a striker at Swindon and I've misremembered the Swindon fans post, but I know 2 lads from down there and have spoken to a few on twitter who all say he's a winger.

I knew of Harry before Hibs as he came through the villa academy so always kept an eye on him and always seemed to see him playing out wide but I didn't see a lot of Swindon that season so I could be wrong, could have been converted to a striker.

[Hibee Mac]

Could be that he was turned into a striker at Swindon and I've misremembered the Swindon fans post, but I know 2 lads from down there and have spoken to a few on twitter who all say he's a winger.

I knew of Harry before Hibs as he came through the villa academy so always kept an eye on him and always seemed to see him playing out wide but I didn't see a lot of Swindon that season so I could be wrong, could have been converted to a striker.I don't know anything about his career prior to Hibs, but I can confirm the the Swindon fan who came on here said he's better in a two up front

That being said, I don't see him getting a game ahead of any of our forward line options as we're very strong there. I reckon he'll be for sale next summer having played very little football for us.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

[worcesterhibby]

I don't know anything about his career prior to Hibs, but I can confirm the the Swindon fan who came on here said he's better in a two up front

That being said, I don't see him getting a game ahead of any of our forward line options as we're very strong there. I reckon he'll be for sale next summer having played very little football for us.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

Final Game of the season against Hearts after the split. Doidge injured (Against Kilmarnock of course) Vente suspended for giving the finger to Rangers fans. Alf playing up top with Boyle. 0-0 with 20 mins to go and Alf is subbed for McKirdy in his first game back after injury. The Swindon Van Basten causes mayhem due to his foot-high green mohawk getting in defenders faces at corners. His first goal is a toe poke from a loose ball..his second a knuckle ball 30 yarder that dips into the top corner...his third a volley that smashes Zander Clarke in the face, breaks his nose and flies in off the crossbar... Harry runs to the centre of pitch, drops his shorts to reveal a second green mowhak and takes out the whole of the Hearts directors box with an imaginary machine gun.

[WeAreHibs]

Final Game of the season against Hearts after the split. Doidge injured (Against Kilmarnock of course) Vente suspended for giving the finger to Rangers fans. Alf playing up top with Boyle. 0-0 with 20 mins to go and Alf is subbed for McKirdy in his first game back after injury. The Swindon Van Basten causes mayhem due to his foot-high green mohawk getting in defenders faces at corners. His first goal is a toe poke from a loose ball..his second a knuckle ball 30 yarder that dips into the top corner...his third a volley that smashes Zander Clarke in the face, breaks his nose and flies in off the crossbar... Harry runs to the centre of pitch, drops his shorts to reveal a second green mowhak and takes out the whole of the Hearts directors box with an imaginary machine gun.

I'll safely say I'll sit in a bath of beans if this happens.

[Pretty Boy]

I don't know anything about his career prior to Hibs, but I can confirm the the Swindon fan who came on here said he's better in a two up front

That being said, I don't see him getting a game ahead of any of our forward line options as we're very strong there. I reckon he'll be for sale next summer having played very little football for us.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

I think it just highlights how all over the place our recruitment was at times. We maybe didn't exclusively sign a whole load of bad players, albeit there have been a few stinkers, but we seemed to sign a whole host of players with no idea how or where we were actually going to play them.

We play 1 up top so lets bring in McKirdy who excels in a 2 and stick him out on the right, ditto with Melkerson. Hoppe was another about whom it was often said that he 'has to play as a 2'. Obviously you want options but last season it was Nisbet then trying to shoehorn others in around him, bizarrely we also had the situation that when Nisbet wasn't fit we really had no one who could play up top on their own in a comparable way to him so had to shuffle the whole team to try and accommodate that or have someone totally unsuited to the lone striker role huffing and puffing for 60 minutes until they were replaced by someone else to take a 30 minute turn being frustrated.

Hopefully now we seem to have a wee bit more cohesion around what we are doing we start to see players coming in and playing to their strengths rather than desperately trying to turn them into something they are clearly not. It might even see guys like McKirdy, Melkerson and Jair show why we were so keen to spend money on bringing them in.

[Centre Hawf]

I have noticed you have a bit of an obsession with wanting Melkersen to do well, obviously we all do as Hibs fans, but what is it you have seen that makes you think he would be good for us? Was it footage from his previous club or something? Just curious as I have really struggled to see what he offers.

I'll throw my name in for this as well as someone who is a bit 'obsessed' with wanting Melkersen to do well. Much like Jair he was signed at a young age (even younger at just turning 19 days before signing) and I think he has shown in glimpses (Motherwell is the obvious one) there is a footballer in there for such a young lad who was settling in, and perhaps just needs a bit more of a push/first team football to unlock it further. The loan to Rotterdam was a poor choice from the club as they clearly went chasing the big sum of money to get their investment back quickly when actually he might have been better served going out to a Raith Rovers etc for 6 months, but I'm still hoping that this current spell back home will perhaps reset his batteries while letting him play proper senior football and then we can reassess in January when he returns if he's bulked up/come on another level that we can work with.

I will concede though that time is running out for him and if he can't come back and stake a claim going into next season it's perhaps not going to happen at all. But I always have sympathy with the younger lads we sign, as it will never be an instant result, we do have to nurture and develop them like we would a Josh O'Connor and afford them more time to show what they've got than say a 28 year old first team signing.

[JohnM1875]

I'll throw my name in for this as well as someone who is a bit 'obsessed' with wanting Melkersen to do well. Much like Jair he was signed at a young age (even younger at just turning 19 days before signing) and I think he has shown in glimpses (Motherwell is the obvious one) there is a footballer in there for such a young lad who was settling in, and perhaps just needs a bit more of a push/first team football to unlock it further. The loan to Rotterdam was a poor choice from the club as they clearly went chasing the big sum of money to get their investment back quickly when actually he might have been better served going out to a Raith Rovers etc for 6 months, but I'm still hoping that this current spell back home will perhaps reset his batteries while letting him play proper senior football and then we can reassess in January when he returns if he's bulked up/come on another level that we can work with.

I will concede though that time is running out for him and if he can't come back and stake a claim going into next season it's perhaps not going to happen at all. But I always have sympathy with the younger lads we sign, as it will never be an instant result, we do have to nurture and develop them like we would a Josh O'Connor and afford them more time to show what they've got than say a 28 year old first team signing.

Firmly in the wanting Melkersen to succeed here as well. Always have been.

Think he'll absolutely benefit a lot from this current loan, actually starting games as a striker through the middle and will come back in January a better player.

[easty]

MacKay is currently struggling to get a game at Livingston, having had some fairly ordinary loan spells, and Tait is back playing in League 1. Appreciate they are both young but I don’t think there is much to be worrying ourselves about. I

Nah. Mackay to be filed alongside Fraser Murray and Stephen Bradley under - players who were let go at the right time, that were never going to make it at Hibs.

[easty]

Firmly in the wanting Melkersen to succeed here as well. Always have been.

Think he'll absolutely benefit a lot from this current loan, actually starting games as a striker through the middle and will come back in January a better player.

I hope he comes back and succeeds too, but other than the Motherwell game he's looked miles off it. The games he played in this season, he was absolutely useless.

He's starting games while away on loan, which can only be good for him.

[Smartie]

Nah. Mackay to be filed alongside Fraser Murray and Stephen Bradley under - players who were let go at the right time, that were never going to make it at Hibs.

... or who might have made it at Hibs, but we'd have had to have been operating at a level at the time way below attempting to compete for 3rd in the premier league. Either of them might have found themselves establishing themselves in a Championship Hibs or one of our weaker, bottom 6 efforts.

[JohnM1875]

I hope he comes back and succeeds too, but other than the Motherwell game he's looked miles off it. The games he played in this season, he was absolutely useless.

He's starting games while away on loan, which can only be good for him.

Think the important thing is he's starting games as a striker through the middle. The laddie is never going to be a winger. Doesn't have the attributes for that.

Definitely think this is probably make or break for him in regards to his Hibs career.

[Hibbyradge]

I see Mattys limbered uo practicing pronouncing his name :)

This dude must be a right laugh at parties - a Jambo probably ;)


https://youtu.be/AMfbJu41XOA?si=4_MOvrIlGKJ3fuio

Matty's a Jambo?

Suddenly everything makes sense!

[Centre Hawf]

Nah. Mackay to be filed alongside Fraser Murray and Stephen Bradley under - players who were let go at the right time, that were never going to make it at Hibs.

I would have quite liked to have seen MacKay get a little run between now and January as well to see if he was capable, but Lee Johnson clearly didn't fancy him (at this point I'm questioning who he did fancy as he had a habit of freezing people out/not giving minutes). But considering he's played about 10 minutes so far this season since joining Livi I think we can probably assume he was never going to make an impact at us and LJ was perhaps right.

[BILLYHIBS]

I would have quite liked to have seen MacKay get a little run between now and January as well to see if he was capable, but Lee Johnson clearly didn't fancy him (at this point I'm questioning who he did fancy as he had a habit of freezing people out/not giving minutes). But considering he's played about 10 minutes so far this season since joining Livi I think we can probably assume he was never going to make an impact at us and LJ was perhaps right.
Joe Newell spoke highly of Dan Mackay during his recent co-commentary

Starting to think LJ let his personal feelings cloud his judgement of a player to the detriment of the club and the player’s career been a few examples recently

[Paulie Walnuts]

Nah. Mackay to be filed alongside Fraser Murray and Stephen Bradley under - players who were let go at the right time, that were never going to make it at Hibs.

:agree:

Dan Mackay will never play at as high a level as Hibs again in his career imo.

[overdrive]

:agree:

Dan Mackay will never play at as high a level as Hibs again in his career imo.

Have to agree. The only times he's looked decent is against weak opposition (European games, pre-season friendlies, etc.) - and that's been under a few managers so it wasn't just LJ not fancying him.

[Since452]

:agree:

Dan Mackay will never play at as high a level as Hibs again in his career imo.

I agree. Tait as well. I'm glad we took a chance on the lads as there was potential there but i think they've found their level, which is good but not Hibs standard. Melkersen i just don't think will make it. Everyone mentions the Motherwell game after he arrived but i can't remember him doing anything significant other than this and that's coming up for two years ago now. Tavares? Big question marks but he has an opportunity. Hope he takes it.

[BILLYHIBS]

Dan Mackay scored a cracker against Celtic in the Scottish Cup Final IIRC

[Hibee Mac]

I think it just highlights how all over the place our recruitment was at times. We maybe didn't exclusively sign a whole load of bad players, albeit there have been a few stinkers, but we seemed to sign a whole host of players with no idea how or where we were actually going to play them.

We play 1 up top so lets bring in McKirdy who excels in a 2 and stick him out on the right, ditto with Melkerson. Hoppe was another about whom it was often said that he 'has to play as a 2'. Obviously you want options but last season it was Nisbet then trying to shoehorn others in around him, bizarrely we also had the situation that when Nisbet wasn't fit we really had no one who could play up top on their own in a comparable way to him so had to shuffle the whole team to try and accommodate that or have someone totally unsuited to the lone striker role huffing and puffing for 60 minutes until they were replaced by someone else to take a 30 minute turn being frustrated.

Hopefully now we seem to have a wee bit more cohesion around what we are doing we start to see players coming in and playing to their strengths rather than desperately trying to turn them into something they are clearly not. It might even see guys like McKirdy, Melkerson and Jair show why we were so keen to spend money on bringing them in.Totally agree, hopefully now that we have a director of football in place we shouldn't see a repeat of that.

Was a very poor decision all round when we binned the director of football position entirely after one or two poor windows in a row. Think we just needed a new man in that role rather than scrapping it.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

[MKHIBEE]

I'll safely say I'll sit in a bath of beans if this happens.
I will join you if it happens

[Tambo]

He’s nowhere near as bad as made out, his reported wage and reputation I think has clouded people’s judgement, including the old management team who just refused to play him to try force him out.

Last pre season he shows flashes of skill. His first competitive game he came on in the cup and in one touch scooped/flicked it over the defender - ridiculous skill.

St Johnstone and Livi were his first 2 games and in the first he created a good amount of chances with his direct running in behind, picked out constantly by Cabraja. The second game he was poor on that pitch, but he was no worse than anyone else.

Since then he’s hardly got a sniff, he came on against st Johnstone again and won a pen which was later called offside, again as a result of his threatening run in behind.

The game that made me think there is 100% something there was against Raith during the Christmas break last year. He was our best player by a mile and skinned his man repeatedly, going outside and inside.

Johnson said himself there’s been friendly games he’s the best player on the park but for some reason never gave him a chance?

Sunday there I thought his movement was again good looking to get in behind but wasn’t picked out, also had a couple of good touches.

The club and Johnson piled the pressure on him, not Jair himself.

Let’s get behind him and give him a chance

Spot on with every word. Will he become something special? Who knows until we give him a proper chance.

[superfurryhibby]

“He’s a very talented boy and, from what I’ve seen in training this week, he’s got a good attitude. You see some of the touches he had, he’s a very good player.

"The 22-year-old, a free transfer from Benfica B in the summer of 2022, was completely excluded from this year’s pre-season trip to Spain, with Johnson declaring that it was time for the wide man to move on.


https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/to-be-honest-nick-montgomerys-frank-hibs-assessment-of-jair-tavares-4338902

Good to hear that Tavares has shown the right attitude and made an impression on Monty, it would be great if he could turn his Hibs career around. I seem to recall Martin Boyle being a mixed bag when he arrived at Hibs, plenty pace but not much arising from it. Coaching changed that?

[Hibbyradge]

“He’s a very talented boy and, from what I’ve seen in training this week, he’s got a good attitude. You see some of the touches he had, he’s a very good player.

"The 22-year-old, a free transfer from Benfica B in the summer of 2022, was completely excluded from this year’s pre-season trip to Spain, with Johnson declaring that it was time for the wide man to move on.


https://www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/to-be-honest-nick-montgomerys-frank-hibs-assessment-of-jair-tavares-4338902

Good to hear that Tavares has shown the right attitude and made an impression on Monty, it would be great if he could turn his Hibs career around. I seem to recall Martin Boyle being a mixed bag when he arrived at Hibs, plenty pace but not much arising from it. Coaching changed that?

Free transfer.

I've been under the impression that we paid decent money for him.

[overdrive]

Free transfer.

I've been under the impression that we paid decent money for him.

https://www.hibernianfc.co.uk/article/jair-tavares-joins-hibernian-fc

Seems to suggest we paid something for him

[Edinburgh Green]

I seem to remember the talk at the time was that it was a free transfer with a large sell on fee 50-60%

[superfurryhibby]

https://www.hibernianfc.co.uk/article/jair-tavares-joins-hibernian-fc

Seems to suggest we paid something for him

“He’s a player we’ve monitored closely for a period of time and were able to take advantage of a specific clause in his contract. He is a real talent that’ll only get better.”

"The terms of the transfer will remain undisclosed"

[J-C]

Sometimes players just don't work out or they don't develop as you'd hope, occasionally it's the player's aptitude and sometimes they just plateau. Perfect examples are Handling, Stanton, Murray etc.

[Calidad]

He’s looked absolutely dire every time I’ve seen him. Also has the misfortune of smiling each time he loses the ball (basically all the time), which makes it look like he couldn’t care less.

Still, I hope he can contribute if he’s brought back into the fold, but I don’t understand why he was given more opportunities than the likes of MacKay or Bradley.

[MrRobot]

Guy deserves a second chance for sure. Was never given a proper chance by Lee Johnson and then frozen out completely. Felt the treatment of him was unfair.

Had barely any time on saturday but in his short time showed a few good touches and made a good run that should have been picked out by Marshall.

Really want to see him turn it around at Hibs.

[ZitellZeTime]

Aye at first I was thinking, although different positions. Remember Jorge Claros after around 15 games nobody wanted him to return after the summer, he did and I and many others were gutted when he left.

However Tavares has had longer at the club and a lot less games. I would love nothing more than to see him turn it around as we need back up in those positions and when they used to post the videos of them training etc on twitter or elsewhere he was like a different player completely on the ball and striking too.

Could be a confidence thing but I don't think so, those videos they kept pumping out of dribbling taking players on in training, crossing and long shots etc were more likely in the hope some club would take him off our hands. Hope he does it but I just cant see it. Hope for the best and prepare for the worst eh !

Also on the subject of Claros I checked Wiki as I couldn't remember where he ended up after us, been a few clubs but looks like he's still playing for some club back home in Honduras by the looks of wiki, says they finished 1st but runners up so they must have a set up like the MLS or something with play offs etc/

[Viva_Palmeiras]

Will be an interesting outcome if Jairzinho turns out to be a player.

Here’s a thing to ponder…

If LJ didn’t coach the team and didn’t do much in the way of tactics wtf was he doing?

As for passing judgment on a player he apparently was on the trail of Jair for some time.
He then gives him little game time, omits from preseason and then shows him the door. How much credence do we give to LJs ability to spot/coach players? Are we to believe that he was a reluctant signatory of recruited players - which players were 100% his?

For so many reasons in hindsight a pretty bizarre tenure.

I don’t think NM is the messiah with reportedly only 60 games under his belt but that was 60 games more than Mowbray.

[SaulGoodman]

Final Game of the season against Hearts after the split. Doidge injured (Against Kilmarnock of course) Vente suspended for giving the finger to Rangers fans. Alf playing up top with Boyle. 0-0 with 20 mins to go and Alf is subbed for McKirdy in his first game back after injury. The Swindon Van Basten causes mayhem due to his foot-high green mohawk getting in defenders faces at corners. His first goal is a toe poke from a loose ball..his second a knuckle ball 30 yarder that dips into the top corner...his third a volley that smashes Zander Clarke in the face, breaks his nose and flies in off the crossbar... Harry runs to the centre of pitch, drops his shorts to reveal a second green mowhak and takes out the whole of the Hearts directors box with an imaginary machine gun.

Yes please :hilarious

[Donegal Hibby]

I have noticed you have a bit of an obsession with wanting Melkersen to do well, obviously we all do as Hibs fans, but what is it you have seen that makes you think he would be good for us? Was it footage from his previous club or something? Just curious as I have really struggled to see what he offers.

Not really a obsession though I suppose it's abit of everything really in footage at his previous club , his two goals against Motherwell in the cup especially the first one which I thought was excellent play from him for two different reasons . Even the games he played for us I thought his movement was good at times .

I think we played him out of position on the right and it didn't suit him , I also think the first loan move was a disaster and didn't help him or us in anyway at all .

With the new manager coming in and playing 4-4-2 I think it would suit him playing more central with a strike partner. Of Tavares , Kenneh and melkersen I thought melkersen had more potential than the other two , still do tbh though that doesn't mean to say I'm right but I'd really like to see him get another chance under the new manager .

[bordergreen]

Not really a obsession though I suppose it's abit of everything really in footage at his previous club , his two goals against Motherwell in the cup especially the first one which I thought was excellent play from him for two different reasons . Even the games he played for us I thought his movement was good at times .

I think we played him out of position on the right and it didn't suit him , I also think the first loan move was a disaster and didn't help him or us in anyway at all .

With the new manager coming in and playing 4-4-2 I think it would suit him playing more central with a strike partner. Of Tavares , Kenneh and melkersen I thought melkersen had more potential than the other two , still do tbh though that doesn't mean to say I'm right but I'd really like to see him get another chance under the new manager .

Agree with all of that. I have always thought he has something about him, which he has shown in glimpses. Never given a fair shot in a position, or, system that suits him. As many others have said on numerous threads, you can’t sign players who looked good in a different position and system, then say they are rubbish because they were no good when playing in a different position that they are not suited to. Hopefully he gets a chance to show that and make us some money too. Otherwise he has been a costly recruitment mistake.

[worcesterhibby]

https://www.hibs.net/images/hibsnet/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by worcesterhibby https://www.hibs.net/images/hibsnet/buttons/viewpost-right.png (https://www.hibs.net/showthread.php?p=7471095#post7471095)
Final Game of the season against Hearts after the split. Doidge injured (Against Kilmarnock of course) Vente suspended for giving the finger to Rangers fans. Alf playing up top with Boyle. 0-0 with 20 mins to go and Alf is subbed for McKirdy in his first game back after injury. The Swindon Van Basten causes mayhem due to his foot-high green mohawk getting in defenders faces at corners. His first goal is a toe poke from a loose ball..his second a knuckle ball 30 yarder that dips into the top corner...his third a volley that smashes Zander Clarke in the face, breaks his nose and flies in off the crossbar... Harry runs to the centre of pitch, drops his shorts to reveal a second green mowhak and takes out the whole of the Hearts directors box with an imaginary machine gun.




Yes please :hilarious

To be honest, it's the goals Hibs have scored and games we have won ...in my imagination..that keep me supporting the club :greengrin:greengrin

[snedzuk]

To be honest, it's the goals Hibs have scored and games we have won ...in my imagination..that keep me supporting the club :greengrin:greengrin[/QUOTE]

Similar here only for me Keira Knightley has the season ticket next to me!

[worcesterhibby]

Yes please :hilarious


To be honest, it's the goals Hibs have scored and games we have won ...in my imagination..that keep me supporting the club :greengrin:greengrin

Similar here only for me Keira Knightley has the season ticket next to me![/QUOTE]

Be careful, she's always nicking my pie in my dreams !! :greengrin

[patlowe]

I've seen nothing to date to suggest Tavares will be a success with us - I don't doubt he has some ability but even in the scouting videos going around it was fairly obvious it was a huge gamble based on the relative lack of physicality and intensity in his game and the level he was playing at. I do understand Duk has been a success coming from there but they are completely different players.

Having said all that - if Monty has seen something and is willing to give him a chance, then we should too. I remain sceptical but would be absolutely delighted to be proven wrong. If Monty can somehow get more out of the existing squad (beyond the quality we already know we have) we are going to be in a great position to challenge for 3rd.

[Centre Hawf]

I've seen nothing to date to suggest Tavares will be a success with us - I don't doubt he has some ability but even in the scouting videos going around it was fairly obvious it was a huge gamble based on the relative lack of physicality and intensity in his game and the level he was playing at. I do understand Duk has been a success coming from there but they are completely different players.

Having said all that - if Monty has seen something and is willing to give him a chance, then we should too. I remain sceptical but would be absolutely delighted to be proven wrong. If Monty can somehow get more out of the existing squad (beyond the quality we already know we have) we are going to be in a great position to challenge for 3rd.

The way I see it for Jair is that he now has until January really to persuade Monty he's got enough about him that can be coached/improved to be a good player at this level. No one can really take him off our hands until then so we may as well put his wages to good use until it gets to a point he's actively hurting the team being involved.

[CapitalGreen]

I've seen nothing to date to suggest Tavares will be a success with us - I don't doubt he has some ability but even in the scouting videos going around it was fairly obvious it was a huge gamble based on the relative lack of physicality and intensity in his game and the level he was playing at. I do understand Duk has been a success coming from there but they are completely different players.

Having said all that - if Monty has seen something and is willing to give him a chance, then we should too. I remain sceptical but would be absolutely delighted to be proven wrong. If Monty can somehow get more out of the existing squad (beyond the quality we already know we have) we are going to be in a great position to challenge for 3rd.

I don’t think physicality has been the big issue, for me it has been his decision making. There have been plenty of Hibs attackers over the years who haven’t been very physical but have been excellent players - the key is knowing how to use the ball, when it’s appropriate to dribble or when it’s appropriate to pass.

[MrRobot]

I don’t think physicality has been the big issue, for me it has been his decision making. There have been plenty of Hibs attackers over the years who haven’t been very physical but have been excellent players - the key is knowing how to use the ball, when it’s appropriate to dribble or when it’s appropriate to pass.

He has played 242 minutes over 10 games; i really don’t think we’ve seen which to judge his decision making so far. On top of that, his confidence must have been shot to pieces.

[eastmainsmsh]

No wonder Jairs confidence was low with Johnson and Co that's why he is in fold again and Johnson at Fleetwood lol

[bingo70]

See Rabbie Matondo is having a decent start to the season for Rangers, was he not bombed out the picture last season like Tavares was with us?

[04Sauzee]

See Rabbie Matondo is having a decent start to the season for Rangers, was he not bombed out the picture last season like Tavares was with us?

Not quite sure, looks like 30 appearances across all competions. Four appearances last May alone.

[Winston Ingram]

Free transfer.

I've been under the impression that we paid decent money for him.

It wasn't free. It was an undisclosed fee

[Slim Shady]

It wasn't free. It was an undisclosed fee

Hes also in the top earner bracket of the wages too.

[Slim Shady]

I agree. Tait as well. I'm glad we took a chance on the lads as there was potential there but i think they've found their level, which is good but not Hibs standard. Melkersen i just don't think will make it. Everyone mentions the Motherwell game after he arrived but i can't remember him doing anything significant other than this and that's coming up for two years ago now. Tavares? Big question marks but he has an opportunity. Hope he takes it.

Tait is a decent player, stinking attitude though and thats why he was shipped back out early.

[w pilton hibby]

Hes also in the top earner bracket of the wages too.

How much are we paying him?

[easty]

Hes also in the top earner bracket of the wages too.

I'm absolutely convinced this is just a "hibs.net FACT" rather than being reality.

Much like "that Chris Mueller is on £10k a week".

[CapitalGreen]

Hes also in the top earner bracket of the wages too.

Mid-range than rather than top bracket.

[Sioux]

Tait is a decent player, stinking attitude though and thats why he was shipped back out early.

Who told you?


Hes also in the top earner bracket of the wages too.

Can you list the salaries of all the 1st team squad?

[Wilson]

I'm absolutely convinced this is just a "hibs.net FACT" rather than being reality.

Much like "that Chris Mueller is on £10k a week".

To be fair, Chris Mueller had owls 🦉 to feed.

[jeffers]

Mid-range than rather than top bracket.

Yup. Fair to say it’s been a very poor return so far. Be interesting to see if he kicks on under Monty.

[patlowe]

I don’t think physicality has been the big issue, for me it has been his decision making. There have been plenty of Hibs attackers over the years who haven’t been very physical but have been excellent players - the key is knowing how to use the ball, when it’s appropriate to dribble or when it’s appropriate to pass.

I don't disagree with you really - I probably used the wrong word but I wouldn't expect him to be 'physical' as such, it's more the nature of the league relative to what our scouts would have seen him doing and what he was up against previously. From what I saw he looked...OK ability wise, quick-ish maybe, not great decision making as you say, and in a much less intense environment with different expectations physically. Our league is fast, intense and direct - and decision making would absolutely be a part of adapting to that. As such I had/have my doubts, but if Monty can get a tune out of him then great.

[007]

It wasn't free. It was an undisclosed fee

Edinburgh Green has said above there was discussion at the time that it was a free transfer with a 50%-60% sell-on. Normally Hibs would announce the transfer fee is undisclosed but for Tavares it said the
terms of the transfer are undisclosed so it feasibly could be along the lines Edinburgh Green has said.

[Hiber-nation]

Starts today!

[Allant1981]

Mental that he was so far out of the plans to now starting today

[Pretty Boy]

He's certainly getting a chance under the new gaffer.

[EdinMike]

Time for him to grab his chance !

[Scooter]

Hopefully the crowd also give him a chance and encourage if he makes a mistake

[Stuart93]

Big shout dropping youan for tavares

[BoomtownHibees]

Big shout dropping youan for tavares

Obviously no 100% fit after last week

[thebausburst]

Starting Tavares is a complete joke, guys completely honking.

[dp00]

Mental that he was so far out of the plans to now starting today

Could be he is trying to send a message to the team that everyone will get a chance and be treated fairly


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[flash]

Starting Tavares is a complete joke, guys completely honking.

That's the spirit.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Good luck to him. Based on absolutely nothing he was one I still felt could come good. Think it’s the dreadlocks but I’m glad he’s actually getting a chance unlike how he was treated under that clown Johnson.

[Vault Boy]

Mon the Jair. Hope he grabs his chance today.

[SChibs]

Starting Tavares is a complete joke, guys completely honking.

You certainly put the word support in supporter.

[AlbertK86]

Obviously no 100% fit after last week

Said in his press conference that both Youan and Doidge had to take it easy with no impact in training so was by waiting to see and may be on bench


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[bingo70]

Good luck to him. Based on absolutely nothing he was one I still felt could come good. Think it’s the dreadlocks but I’m glad he’s actually getting a chance unlike how he was treated under that clown Johnson.

When he came on against Morton and chipped the ball over the boys heid and ran onto it I said to my mates this guy is going to be better than George Best.

I stand by it.

[Iain G]

Starting Tavares is a complete joke, guys completely honking.

Your post is the complete joke. New manager, new ideas, go with it, well until the wheels fall off in January or whenever 🤣

[Pretty Boy]

Your post is the complete joke. New manager, new ideas, go with it, well until the wheels fall off in January or whenever 🤣

January?

I'll be posting reactionary pish if we aren't 3-0 up by 3.25 today.

[Baader]

Big chance for him today after being so far out the picture. Hope he takes it. :flag:

[Iain G]

January?

I'll be posting reactionary pish if we aren't 3-0 up by 3.25 today.

Am in Santorini, its already 4.15 🤣

[B.H.F.C]

Hope he takes his chance. We really need another winger as we can’t rely on just the two of them.

If he applies himself and plays with a bit of intent the crowd will get right behind him.

[HendoDelivered]

Has my full support the day 👍🏼 cmon Jair

[sleeping giant]

Big chance for him.
Really hope he gets himself involved.

[Callum_62]

Starting Tavares is a complete joke, guys completely honking.Booooo.

Sent from my Pixel 7 Pro using Tapatalk

[Saint Hibee]

Is Youan dropped or on bench due to injury?

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Am in Santorini, its already 4.15 🤣

Game must be finished by now, did we win? 🤔

[blackpoolhibs]

Game must be finished by now, did we win? 🤔
:greengrin

[thebausburst]

Totally out his depth, offers nothing, needs hooked asap for Youhan

[Hibbyradge]

It's frustrating to watch a player, hoping that he does well, only for him to offer no indication as to why he's in the squad.

[Alfred E Newman]

Starting Tavares is a complete joke, guys completely honking.

Hibs net at its very best.

[cameronw-hfc]

Totally out his depth, offers nothing, needs hooked asap for Youhan

Your posts today have been nothing short of a disgrace.

You're desperate for him to do something wrong, obvious you've got a grudge against him, give it a rest, we know how you feel, no need to go posting it in multiple threads multiple times in the past few hours.

Try, I dunno, supporting the team? He's a young lad that's played less than 10 games for us.

[500miles]

Some good, some bad. Better than I expected at least.

[overdrive]

He’s a lot better than he has been which admittedly is an extremely low bar. Absolutely no chance should he be starting regularly over Youan.

[ScottB]

Is Youan dropped or on bench due to injury?

Nick said him and Doidge are fit but with the run of games coming up he decided to bench them, they’ve been training but no contact all week etc.

If we didn’t have the midweek game he might have started them.

[The Modfather]

He’s looked keen and a few good runs and balls over the top. Also looked lost out there for large spells IMO.

[SChibs]

He looks like a player with no confidence but he needs to adapt to the pace of the game here. If he can then he may be useful for us but at the moment he wants too much time on the ball

[K-Zazu]

He’s hardly played ffs won’t be high on conference either

[bingo70]

I thought he did fine today.

He’s not going to go from completely out the picture with no game time in a year to Motm performances in a week. The first part of the process will be to integrate him back into the team and make him an effective member of the squad again. Start of that process is well under way. In time I hope he kicks on again but i would guess that’ll take a few months, if it happens at all.

[B.H.F.C]

Couple of decent moments and a few times where the ball just bounced off him. Not aggressive enough.

Didn’t think he was a disaster but he’ll need to improve on that quickly.

[SaulGoodman]

He looked alright. Wasn’t amazing. Wasn’t expecting him to be amazing. He’ll only get better by getting minutes.

[DJ HIBBY]

One of the worst performances I’ve seen in a hibs jersey, was clueless. Nowhere near ready to play for hibs, we improved massively when Youan came on. The young lad also looked miles better in the time he had on too. Should never play again

[Wilson]

Couple of decent moments and a few times where the ball just bounced off him. Not aggressive enough.

Didn’t think he was a disaster but he’ll need to improve on that quickly.

The bbc described his performance as "neat and tidy but without the explosive menace of Boyle or Youan".

Not every player is as explosive as Boyle or Youan can be to be fair.

I think we might see more from Jair as he becomes more confident within the team.

[LewysGot2]

Couple of decent moments and a few times where the ball just bounced off him. Not aggressive enough.

Didn’t think he was a disaster but he’ll need to improve on that quickly.

It's the physical side of the game and a little bit of desire needed but it wasn't a total write off like some of last seasons cameos from him. Didn't look over the moon at being subbed but it was the right swap and pivotal in the match outcome and general play in the last 30 mins being better. Youan's unpredictability and better physical attributes were obviously far more of a handful for Saints.

Let's hope Jair takes what chances come his way. It benefits nobody for him to fail

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

Just not got it I'm afraid 😔

[skyehibee]

Still doesn’t look good enough. Whittaker looked better

[green day]

One of the worst performances I’ve seen in a hibs jersey, was clueless. Nowhere near ready to play for hibs, we improved massively when Youan came on. The young lad also looked miles better in the time he had on too. Should never play again

For a guy who hasn't started a game for over a year, and was relegated to playing with the Dev team, I think we can cut him some slack today.

His confidence is clearly shot, and starting a winning match is going to help that.

Who knows how he will turn out. I would be surprised if Montgomery put him in the starting line up just for a bit of a giggle.......

[nonshinyfinish]

One of the worst performances I’ve seen in a hibs jersey

Was it aye?

[Stuart93]

Hoping they aren’t going to try persist due to our assistant working with him before, seems he’s unfortunately just not good enough

[USA_Hibee]

Glad he got some time! I think maybe starting him instead of bringing him on at say 60 mins was a mistake. I think I can see why this was done though.

I'm happy for him and looking forward to seeing how he is after some more time.

[bingo70]

The bbc described his performance as "neat and tidy but without the explosive menace of Boyle or Youan".

Not every player is as explosive as Boyle or Youan can be to be fair.

I think we might see more from Jair as he becomes more confident within the team.

BBC description is spot on IMO.

[leith lynx]

Just not got it I'm afraid 😔

Sadly true.

[SaulGoodman]

One of the worst performances I’ve seen in a hibs jersey, was clueless. Nowhere near ready to play for hibs, we improved massively when Youan came on. The young lad also looked miles better in the time he had on too. Should never play again

If you take away the first and last sentence your post would be a lot better. Don’t think there’s much need for such hyperbole.

[Hibees1973]

Hmm.

Sorry, yeah. Just doesn't provide anything.

Could transform overnight into something else, but doubtful.

[malcky]

Hoping they aren’t going to try persist due to our assistant working with him before, seems he’s unfortunately just not good enough

Plenty said that last year about Youan

[Bobby's Cinema]

Showed a few decent touches first half thought he done OK. Good ball drilled across the box.
Just brushed aside too easily too often, he is always going to struggle physically against that kind of opposition.

[Just Alf]

I thought he did fine today.

He’s not going to go from completely out the picture with no game time in a year to Motm performances in a week. The first part of the process will be to integrate him back into the team and make him an effective member of the squad again. Start of that process is well under way. In time I hope he kicks on again but i would guess that’ll take a few months, if it happens at all.Ta.. you've saved me some
Typing :-)

[SlickShoes]

Almost can't believe the overly negative opinions here, but also I can because it's here.

He was fine, played some nice passes, to come from basically being forced out to back in the first team in a few weeks is a lot, hope he gets more game time and can grow into the team.

[allezsauzee]

I really don't see what Jair brings to the team. He just drifts about and doesn't impact the game. I think we'll need to cut our losses at some point with him.

[7Hero]

Tavares getting a chance is all good and I'm all for giving players chances but he has once again proved he's not very good. People dissing "negative" comments, hope that one doesn't offend you too much 🙄

Still in saying that I (strangely) would have fancied him to score youans chance today when Mr casual whacked it over the bar..

[AL-Qaholik]

He was the worst player on the park, pretending otherwise is pointless.
That said, he’s played basically no football at this level so I have no idea if he could improve enough or not.
I’m just not sure we have the luxury of persisting with somebody who has shown nothing so far in the hopes he might come good at some point.

[ScottB]

Ultimately, the manager thinks he’s worth giving a chance, either he’ll take advantage of that and kick on or he won’t.

Still happy that we’re going to get an answer either way compared to how he and indeed, a lot of the young / development players faired under Johnson.

[Pretty Boy]

I wasn't surprised he was subbed fairly early, he was never giving us much more than an hour today.

Tbh I didn't think he was great. Was eased off the ball very easily and spent a lot of time picking himself up off the ground, the rest of our attacking options looked well ahead physically.

I didn't expect much after so long out the team though and he definitely showed he has attributes that can be developed. As said above his rehabilitation is going to be a long process and the last 2 weeks have been tiny steps on that journey. We can't do much with the squad until January and more likely the summer so we are as well giving what we have a chance and working from there.

[HibbyKeith]

Martin Boyle struggled to get a game for Dundee. Let that sink in before writing Tavares off, after a fairly limited amount of game time.

[mcohibs]

Almost can't believe the overly negative opinions here, but also I can because it's here.

He was fine, played some nice passes, to come from basically being forced out to back in the first team in a few weeks is a lot, hope he gets more game time and can grow into the team.

Come on, he was very poor today. Contributed nothing, drifted about like a headless chicken, no positional awareness. Bullied off the ball too many times as well. Call it overly negative, it’s realistic. Nowhere near a good enough performance for a team that’s aiming for third this year.

[Wilson]

Ultimately, the manager thinks he’s worth giving a chance, either he’ll take advantage of that and kick on or he won’t.

Still happy that we’re going to get an answer either way compared to how he and indeed, a lot of the young / development players faired under Johnson.

That is the key.

It is no accident that Jair is getting minutes and a young player gets his shot.

One of the big reasons Monty is a fit for hibs is because this is exactly what was going to happen.

If Jair turns out to be good enough or not it won't end up an expensive write off because he didn't get a chance.

[DJ HIBBY]

Was it aye?

It was aye, terrible touch and so easily brushed off the ball. We moved our best winger to the other wing to accommodate him too. So often he was out of position too and the two centre forwards had to go cover him but he had no interest in getting back to the wing. It was no coincidence hibs improved sharply when he went off, we were carrying a passenger who was hopelessly out of his depth at this level. As I said the young lad Whittaker when he came on offered a hell of a lot more.

[Carheenlea]

If that was his debut you’d probably say he did OK and would feel that there were signs that better things were to come.

Nick Montgomerie obviously wants to see him play in games to make his own judgment but what we saw today was basically what we’ve always seen to date from Jair.

[nonshinyfinish]

It was aye, terrible touch and so easily brushed off the ball. We moved our best winger to the other wing to accommodate him too. So often he was out of position too and the two centre forwards had to go cover him but he had no interest in getting back to the wing. It was no coincidence hibs improved sharply when he went off, we were carrying a passenger who was hopelessly out of his depth at this level. As I said the young lad Whittaker when he came on offered a hell of a lot more.

Don't really disagree with any of that. Not sure why you didn't post that to begin with instead of pointless hyperbole.

[Hibbyradge]

Martin Boyle struggled to get a game for Dundee. Let that sink in before writing Tavares off, after a fairly limited amount of game time.

Presumably that was because he wasn't playing well.

Tavares wasn't good today. He might get better, but we can't judge him on what's yet to happen.

As someone else pointed out, he was our worst player. Young Whittaker hasn't played a single minute for the first team and he made a much bigger impact in half the time.

That's a negative review, but I don't think it can seriously be contradicted.

[bingo70]

Come on, he was very poor today. Contributed nothing, drifted about like a headless chicken, no positional awareness. Bullied off the ball too many times as well. Call it overly negative, it’s realistic. Nowhere near a good enough performance for a team that’s aiming for third this year.

He didn’t contribute nothing, he had a good assist for a chance at one point for a shot that went wide, he also came close with a shot himself. Defensively I remember him contributing by helping out Miller on at least one occasion.

Nobody is pretending he was brilliant, he wasn’t. He did some good/tidy things and he had a couple of poor moments. Overall, he was fine and it was a good reintroduction to the first team for him.

[bingo70]

Presumably that was because he wasn't playing well.

Tavares wasn't good today. He might get better, but we can't judge him on what's yet to happen.

As someone else pointed out, he was our worst player. Young Whittaker hasn't played a single minute for the first team and he made a much bigger impact in half the time.

That's a negative review, but I don't think it can seriously be contradicted.

Whittaker came on when we were winning and they were opening up. Tavares played when the game was ugly, scrappy and they were being hard to break down with bodies behind the ball.

Not a fair comparison at all.

[DJ HIBBY]

Tavares also went off when we hadn’t really played well and our performance improved massively when he went off.

[tamig]

I think if the coaching stuff can work on the physical side of his game, he could be useful for us. Thats where he lacks most in my opinion. Being able to stay on his feet with someone right up his arse would be a good starting point.

[Hibbyradge]

Whittaker came on when we were winning and they were opening up. Tavares played when the game was ugly, scrappy and they were being hard to break down with bodies behind the ball.

Not a fair comparison at all.

Ok. Do you disagree with the rest of my remarks too?

By the way, both Whittaker and Tavares played about 20 minutes while we were winning.

[CL0762]

Some of the comments in here saying it’s the worst ever performance from a Hibs player 😂😂😂 must’ve been the first time they’ve ever seen Hibs play.

For a young laddie who was effectively bombed out the first team and treated like a piece of **** by the previous management team, he done ok today. Given he’s had barely any minutes even for the dev team he’s hardly going to be full of confidence.

Some folk need to have a word with themselves.

[7Hero]

Biggest positive is manager is giving players a chance.

Long may that continue..

If they are PISH then he'll find out soon ...

[Donegal Hibby]

Tavares had a poor game imo and didn't get involved enough . Young Whittaker showed more desire and hunger and wasn't afraid to get stuck in , most of the time Tavares just strolled about without tackling or closing players down .

[Hiber-nation]

Produced 2 of the best moments of the 1st half. But still too lightweight. Hopefully the management team can get something out of him. Can't honestly see him starting again any time soon.

[bingo70]

Ok. Do you disagree with the rest of my remarks too?

By the way, both Whittaker and Tavares played about 20 minutes while we were winning.

Yeah, pretty much.

I don’t see the need to label someone as our worst player when he was fine. He contributed to a winning team when he went off. I don’t think for a second the team carried him at all like some, including you, seem to be suggesting.

Martin Boyle was a lot better in the second half today too, he didn’t become a better player in the second half, the game just started to open up a a bit more.

For a player like Jair, it would have been easier for him to come on in the second half than it would have been to start.

Just to reiterate though, i don’t think he was brilliant, I thought he put in a decent shift in though and made a good enough contribution for a guy who a week ago was bombed miles out the picture, hasn’t had a proper pre-season and is going to be a work in progress in terms of his rehabilitation.

[BILLYHIBS]

Nervous start with a couple of clumsy touches and wasn’t allowed time on the ball as you would expect

Improved as the game progressed without making any real impact

A worthwhile 55 minutes for Jair to appreciate the pace and physicality of the Scottish game and for the Coaches to see at close quarters if he is worth persevering with

[Brightside]

He’s not better than the youth players.

[bingo70]

He’s not better than the youth players.

Who are the wingers in the youth sides still at the club and not on loan?

When NM has literally just put someone in the side today based on a performance in the younger age group against Rangers and training, I wonder why he played Jair and not one of the players who you think are better.

[Brightside]

Who are the wingers in the youth sides still at the club and not on loan?

When NM has literally just put someone in the side today based on a performance in the younger age group against Rangers and training, I wonder why he played Jair and not one of the players who you think are better.

All for giving him a chance. I’d play rudi there befor him. Bit as you say we don’t get to see them in training. For me he doesn’ have the physical ability for this league.

[tamig]

All for giving him a chance. I’d play rudi there befor him. Bit as you say we don’t get to see them in training. For me he doesn’ have the physical ability for this league.

And thats not something the staff can work on?

[Brightside]

And thats not something the staff can’t work on?

Totally. More oats

[RyeSloan]

Hardly the worst ever performance but overall it’s hard to say it was anything but mediocre at best.

I’m not sure what type of player he’s meant to be. His touch didn’t look great, doesn’t seem to have an abundance of pace and clearly physically a bit weak.

I certainly wouldn’t be shifting Boyle from that side to accommodate him again after that performance.

But hey you just never know I suppose!

[ChuckNor]

I think fan expectations are still elevated given the hype when we signed him. Personally, I think he was mediocre today. An improvement on before. Montgomery clears sees something there. Given his last game was with the youth team against Dunbar then it is going to take some time before he gets up to speed. Looking forward to seeing if Montgomery can transfer what he shows in training into matches.

[marinello59]

He did alright, not brilliant but alright. He looked slightly nervous to me, understandable as he will know he has his doubters. A bit more game time should give him the confidence to relax and play his game. I wouldn’t be writing him off just yet.

[Hibee Mac]

Looks to me like he doesn't have the desire and grit between the teeth that, in my opinion, most players need to really succeed.

He just doesn't look up for any kind of physical battle, I'm not saying he needs to love a tackle but he's got to have a bit of bite. Boyle, Youan, even young Whittaker all show that in abundance almost every week.

I just don't see it with Tavarez, would love to be proved wrong but I do think the defence of him is more wishful thinking than anything else.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

[James70]

I don't understand the amount of negativity towards one player who has barely played any amount of time in the first team.

If our new manager is prepared to give him a chance to prove himself then that is good enough for me.

[Unseen work]

First start at this level in 12 months?

Not shocked at all if people thought he looked nervous or a bit rust, it takes time to build that and confidence.

Hopefully with that today and more minutes over the next couple of weeks we really see what he’s about.

He will know a large majority of the fans have wrote him off, as the previous management team did. Hopefully the current management team get it out of him,

It was also unbelievably brave from Montgomery, he will have known the perception around him.

[Centre Hawf]

I have to admit the instinctive dislike for him is a bit perplexing. I think at this point some people are done with the idea of him more than Jair himself. He was neither amazing nor tam kite today, he looked like a guy feeling his way back into things and got involved without much coming off for him.

For me, he needs a little run to blow off some cobwebs and get himself going before I fully decide we should cut ties. Playing the combined total of about 90 minutes of senior football in the last 13 months is in no world an acceptable sample size to write him off entirely.

[SlickShoes]

Tavares also went off when we hadn’t really played well and our performance improved massively when he went off.

Yes. Because he was replaced by our most creative player and guy that a year ago some people said 'he doesnt have' 'too weak' 'will never make it at this level'.

Hardly a shock that bringing Youan on made us better.

[DJ HIBBY]

You seriously cannot compare Youan to Tavares. Even early doors you could see Youan had talent and he was influencing matches. Tavares has shown nothing. I’ve no axe to grind with Tavares and was keen to see him do well today. Today though just showed why he hasn’t been near the team as he looked nowhere near ready for this level.

[SaulGoodman]

. I’ve no axe to grind with Tavares.

Good one :greengrin

[SlickShoes]

You seriously cannot compare Youan to Tavares. Even early doors you could see Youan had talent and he was influencing matches. Tavares has shown nothing. I’ve no axe to grind with Tavares and was keen to see him do well today. Today though just showed why he hasn’t been near the team as he looked nowhere near ready for this level.

Think you are seeing what you want to see, there was nothing thread-worthy good or bad in his performance so a thread albeit created ages ago thats just full of aggressively negative stuff is weird, like people watched him today and actually thought 'he should never play for us ever again', seen hundreds of worse performances than how he played today.

[ChuckNor]

Think you are seeing what you want to see, there was nothing thread-worthy good or bad in his performance so a thread albeit created ages ago thats just full of aggressively negative stuff is weird, like people watched him today and actually thought 'he should never play for us ever again', seen hundreds of worse performances than how he played today.

Yea, a lot of very harsh criticism of him in this thread. I think the way Hibs announced the signing (making him out to be a coup, giving him the number 7 etc) has led to people having very high expectations.

Fans often praise managers who give players a clean slate. Perhaps we as fans should also give players that same opportunity.

[jeffers]

Is he any better than Dan Mackay who we deemed not good enough ?

[neil7908]

Yea, a lot of very harsh criticism of him in this thread. I think the way Hibs announced the signing (making him out to be a coup, giving him the number 7 etc) has led to people having very high expectations.

Fans often praise managers who give players a clean slate. Perhaps we as fans should also give players that same opportunity.

Felt going into the season that we were very short of options out wide so happy to see Tavares back in the side. I'm not entirely convinced but we need options and players who can step in for injuries etc. He's still a young guy and seems like his confidence is shot but if the coaching staff can work with him, will be like a new signing

[HIBS NUTS]

I watch a lot of hibs youth football , and i think there is better under 18 players.
He got a run out, and he was pretty poor.

[jakedance]

I thought he did alright but Youan showed how much better he is within about a minute of coming on.

He either doesn’t have the confidence, ability or match fitness to do anything much going forward so it was all neat touches and playing it backwards. The new manager must be seeing potential and feels like he can be developed. It’s a good test for them both.

[hibee-boys]

I’m sorry but LJ breakdown or not, he looks far from what we need🤷🏼

[JammyDoidger]

You'd think being given a second chance he would work his socks off and fight for everything, it's just not in his make up, waste of space, that 16 year old laddie showed more in 20mins than he has since he's been here.

[HoboHarry]

Totally. More oats

Raw meat for the Portuguese Man o' war......

[JohnM1875]

You'd think being given a second chance he would work his socks off and fight for everything, it's just not in his make up, waste of space, that 16 year old laddie showed more in 20mins than he has since he's been here.

He did work his socks off and and tried just as much as any other player first half. Ridiculous to say he didn't. He just needs to learn the Scottish game. You're just not going to get free kicks sometimes.

[JammyDoidger]

He did work his socks off and and tried just as much as any other player first half. Ridiculous to say he didn't. He just needs to learn the Scottish game. You're just not going to get free kicks sometimes.

You think so? I remember Whittaker getting the crowd going on 2 separate occasions with his harrying and tackling, never seen a bit of it from Jair Tavares. Just hovered about.

[JohnM1875]

You think so? I remember Whittaker getting the crowd going on 2 separate occasions with his harrying and tackling, never seen a bit of it from Jair Tavares. Just hovered about.

I do.

Different stages of the game for Jair and Rory though for me. I think the first half in general was a bit flatter. Wouldn't say that meant Jair wasn't trying just as hard as any other player.

Think you also need to take into account where he's came from. Frozen out and probably treated like trash to starting. It'll have been a learning experience and confidence builder from him.

He did fine.

[mcohibs]

He did work his socks off and and tried just as much as any other player first half. Ridiculous to say he didn't. He just needs to learn the Scottish game. You're just not going to get free kicks sometimes.

Only thing that’s ridiculous are people thinking he played well today, baffling. Drifted about most of the first half out of position, not showing as an option for Miller when in possession, looks lightweight and too easily brushed off the ball.

Should’ve been hooked at half time. NM clearly hoped he’d improve start of second half, but didn’t and he was subsequently replaced by Youan who was noticeably an instant improvement.

[Hibby70]

Needs games to improve and have an effect on the game. Don't think he'll be afforded the time though as he looked completely lost at times today.

Shame for the lad but we can't afford passengers.

[JohnM1875]

Only thing that’s ridiculous are people thinking he played well today, baffling. Drifted about most of the first half out of position, not showing as an option for Miller when in possession, looks lightweight and too easily brushed off the ball.

Should’ve been hooked at half time. NM clearly hoped he’d improve start of second half, but didn’t and he was subsequently replaced by Youan who was noticeably an instant improvement.

He wasn't great but he wasn't awful. Think folk need to appreciate what he's gone through.

Disagree though he made plenty runs and gave options.

Obviously Youan coming on made an improvement. He's probably our best player.

[JammyDoidger]

I do.

Different stages of the game for Jair and Rory though for me. I think the first half in general was a bit flatter. Wouldn't say that meant Jair wasn't trying just as hard as any other player.

Think you also need to take into account where he's came from. Frozen out and probably treated like trash to starting. It'll have been a learning experience and confidence builder from him.

He did fine.

All the more reason for him to get stuck in, he's been thrown a lifeline he needs to stand out now..
I'm glad the rest of the team weren't just fine, or we would have lost. Like I say a 16 year old showed more guts in 20 minutes than he's shown since arriving here on a big wage. Needs to puff the chest out, grow a set or he will go the same way as melkerson. He's lucky he's been given a chance, won't get many more on performances like that.

[Viva_Palmeiras]

I watch a lot of hibs youth football , and i think there is better under 18 players.
He got a run out, and he was pretty poor.

under LJ who was, despite his self-declared games under his belt (501 until his release iirc) he we the epitome of a very poor manager. Jair said he didn’t want the 10. LJs ooor judgment again. Clean slate. Boa sorte Jair!

[Viva_Palmeiras]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

[AlbertK86]

Hardly the worst ever performance but overall it’s hard to say it was anything but mediocre at best.

I’m not sure what type of player he’s meant to be. His touch didn’t look great, doesn’t seem to have an abundance of pace and clearly physically a bit weak.

I certainly wouldn’t be shifting Boyle from that side to accommodate him again after that performance.

But hey you just never know I suppose!

Boyle started on the left last week.

NM likes inverted wingers seemingly so don’t think Boyle was moved to accommodate him


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[7Hero]

Tavares is the type of player who gets a game cause his dad owns the club.

[Viva_Palmeiras]

Tavares is the type of player who gets a game cause his dad owns the club.

So it seems the slate is clearly no lt wiped clean from your perspective?

[Unseen work]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

Campbell and Hanlon get it worse than anyone.

I think it’s as simple as folk just don’t rate them.

[The Modfather]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

Much the same as Stevenson & Hanlon, would be surprised if race played any part and it’s more down to the way messagebosrds/social media go these days. Folk form an opinion and that’s it then set in stone regardless of how players play.

[eaststandstoner]

Given mins & a consistent run of games we will see what’s what, imo I think he’s being written off too soon, he deserves the chance he’s been given now, build his confidence get him bulked up in the gym if he’s too lightweight, there’s work to be done but he’s gotta be given time to achieve that, I feel under LJ he was just abandoned an written off.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[7Hero]

Shame that race is brought into this, sure that is the last thing on anyones mind when they are pointing criticism at Jair or Rocky.

[marinello59]

Shame that race is brought into this, sure that is the last thing on anyones mind when they are pointing criticism at Jair or Rocky.

:agree:

[easty]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

I don’t even know why any regular poster on here would post this? When it’s obviously bollocks.

[LewysGot2]

Boyle started on the left last week.

NM likes inverted wingers seemingly so don’t think Boyle was moved to accommodate him


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yes, maybe folk didn't spot the change in approach last weekif they weren't at Kilmarnock. Definitely seems to favour 442 with inverted wingers.

[500miles]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

Rocky started horrendously here and Tavares was even worse.

Rocky has shown period of real potential and yesterday was the best I've seen Tavares - patchy, but looking like an actual professional.

I think NM prides himself on the individual development of his players, so I think they'll get chances.

[neil7908]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

Sorry but I think this is a massive leap.

McKirdy, Marshall, Hanlon, Stevenson, Jeggo and Campbell have all come in for loads of criticism (some justified, lots not). I think it's just the nature of modern football.

[Unseen work]

Sorry but I think this is a massive leap.

McKirdy, Marshall, Hanlon, Stevenson, Jeggo and Campbell have all come in for loads of criticism (some justified, lots not). I think it's just the nature of modern football.

To call it a leap is generous.

To insinuate that sort of behaviour because some fans don’t rate Rocky or Tavares is out of order.

It’s based on nothing whatsoever.

[Hibbyradge]

Rocky started horrendously here and Tavares was even worse.

Rocky has shown period of real potential and yesterday was the best I've seen Tavares - patchy, but looking like an actual professional.

I think NM prides himself on the individual development of his players, so I think they'll get chances.

I'm going to watch the match in full again because I thought Jair added little or nothing. I'm not writing him off, I hope he shows the aptitude that convinced us to bring him to Easter Road, but he certainly didn't do that yesterday.

[Allant1981]

I'm going to watch the match in full again because I thought Jair added little or nothing. I'm not writing him off, I hope he shows the aptitude that convinced us to bring him to Easter Road, but he certainly didn't do that yesterday.

From memory he had a cross and the shot that went over the bar, I just can't see him making it here but you never know

[I'm_cabbaged]

I'm going to watch the match in full again because I thought Jair added little or nothing. I'm not writing him off, I hope he shows the aptitude that convinced us to bring him to Easter Road, but he certainly didn't do that yesterday.

Looked like a player totally devoid of any confidence tbh, if more time with the squad and more game time helps who knows I suppose, but did look a bit out of his depth.

[Fuzzywuzzy]

Was there a massive expectation on him today? He played nearly 60 mins in a first team game in Christ knows how long. His confidence would have used the boost. Don't think he was particularly bad. There were several senior players that walk themselves into trouble for absolutely no reason.

If he gets more game time we may see great improvements in him. Who knows

[Keepthefaith]

It's possibly less about race with jair and more that he's seen as a luxury player? Someone with bags of potential, good skills but "just too lightweight and not right for Scottish game" whatever that is. Maybe try telling kyogo that!

FWIW I think there's a player in there, remember it was only his second game back, thought there were good aspects to his play but he wouldn't have got a game if doige and youan were fit, so don't panic!

I also think Monty is genuine that he won't dish out favours, so if he's not seen as good enough he'll not keep his place.

From his perspective imagine going into your work knowing that a large amount of people had questioned your ability and wanted you out for the last year? Must have been tough for him so let's give him time. Fortunately most of the crowd were kind to him.

[WhileTheChief..]

Much the same as Stevenson & Hanlon, would be surprised if race played any part and it’s more down to the way messagebosrds/social media go these days. Folk form an opinion and that’s it then set in stone regardless of how players play.

Bushiri will only play when Hanlon or Fish can't. No way he will be a regular starter and I won't be surprised to see him moved on in January.

Basing my opinion purely on what I've seen from him on the pitch and not what anyone else is saying on social media or on here.

I also don't care what race he is. (Just adding that for absolute clarity as it appears it might be necessary to mention this when discussing players performances these days :wink:)

[Rumble de Thump]

The previous head coach put huge pressure on him by needlessly building expectations, then he completely scuppered the player's development. It already seems that Montgomery will be far better for our promising young players. Hibs suporters can help by supporting them.

[B.H.F.C]

I think if the coaching stuff can work on the physical side of his game, he could be useful for us. Thats where he lacks most in my opinion. Being able to stay on his feet with someone right up his arse would be a good starting point.

The physical side comes down to desire so it’s entirely down to him.

You see Whittaker when he came on, he just had a bit of purpose and went to close the ball down and compete like he meant it.

I didn’t think Tavares was dreadful yesterday, there were glimpses, but he’ll need to do more to stay about the team

His confidence is probably non existent in fairness.

[Tambo]

Wasn't terrible or nothing special, a few good touches and a half decent effort on goal.

Fans gave him a decent reception as he went off.

[ElginHibbie]

Wasn't terrible or nothing special, a few good touches and a half decent effort on goal.

Fans gave him a decent reception as he went off.

Yup, won’t be starting again anytime soon if Boyle and Youan both fit.

But gives any idea where he is and what he needs to improve on, no need to write him off completely just yet

[Hiber-nation]

To call it a leap is generous.

To insinuate that sort of behaviour because some fans don’t rate Rocky or Tavares is out of order.

It’s based on nothing whatsoever.

Yep, really poor stuff, typed out without any thought given to it whatsoever.

[SeanWilson]

It looked to me like the lad was just over trying. For Montgomery to just throw him in, there must be a player there.

[portyhibernian]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

They get a hard time because they haven't been showing very much on the park, indeed Rocky probably cost us the win at Killie last week. Don't like this implication at all, pretty poor to paint fellow fans in that light.

[Eyrie]

The physical side comes down to desire so it’s entirely down to him.

You see Whittaker when he came on, he just had a bit of purpose and went to close the ball down and compete like he meant it.

I didn’t think Tavares was dreadful yesterday, there were glimpses, but he’ll need to do more to stay about the team

His confidence is probably non existent in fairness.

Different type of player though. Whittaker is a RB so is used to challenging for the ball whereas Tavares is a winger.

Agree though that Tavares needs to build some confidence before he can be judged properly.

[Donegal Hibby]

It's possibly less about race with jair and more that he's seen as a luxury player? Someone with bags of potential, good skills but "just too lightweight and not right for Scottish game" whatever that is. Maybe try telling kyogo that!

FWIW I think there's a player in there, remember it was only his second game back, thought there were good aspects to his play but he wouldn't have got a game if doige and youan were fit, so don't panic!

I also think Monty is genuine that he won't dish out favours, so if he's not seen as good enough he'll not keep his place.

From his perspective imagine going into your work knowing that a large amount of people had questioned your ability and wanted you out for the last year? Must have been tough for him so let's give him time. Fortunately most of the crowd were kind to him.

I'm all for players getting a chance though what we seen yesterday is much the same as we have seen before from him which was disappointing tbh . Kyogo is totally different in that he's a feisty player who regularly gets involved in games.

Tavares had nearly a hour on yesterday and apart from a couple of moments imo he was pretty anonymous . He was far to easily brushed off the ball , didn't close the st johnstone players down quickly enough and can't really remember him putting in any tackles. Felt like we were a man down at times yesterday .

Giving him time is ok though what if we have a player in the youth team thats playing well and could possibly contribute more like young Whittaker did . I did wonder watching Jair yesterday is he any better of a option than Daniel Mackay would have been too .

I didn't see much yesterday to suggest that Jair will come good or there's a player there . I hope of course he comes good and proves me wrong though .

[Keepthefaith]

I'm all for players getting a chance though what we seen yesterday is much the same as we have seen before from him which was disappointing tbh . Kyogo is totally different in that he's a feisty player who regularly gets involved in games.

Tavares had nearly a hour on yesterday and apart from a couple of moments imo he was pretty anonymous . He was far to easily brushed off the ball , didn't close the st johnstone players down quickly enough and can't really remember him putting in any tackles. Felt like we were a man down at times yesterday .

Giving him time is ok though what if we have a player in the youth team thats playing well and could possibly contribute more like young Whittaker did . I did wonder watching Jair yesterday is he any better of a option than Daniel Mackay would have been too .

I didn't see much yesterday to suggest that Jair will come good or there's a player there . I hope of course he comes good and proves me wrong though .

its interesting that you didn't comment on the last bit of my post about his confidence and how it might have felt for him to play in front of fans like yourself who have decided he's not good enough. I was watching him pretty closely and what me and my mate noticed was how many good runs he made, how many good positions he got himself into. sure he could have done better at closing down at times and he lost a few tackles (so did Boyle btw) but it feels like he's got more to prove as a result of what's gone on in the last year, especially the way he was brought int o much fanfare and rumours of salary. I think you're being a bit selective to prove a point, but he did ok yesterday, as he also did ok for his cameo against kill the week before.

I trust this manager to get it right with Tavares. however to make a comparison with Whittaker isn't totally fair - they're very different players and I don't see Tavares blocking his development under Monty. McKay would appear to have been at the club long enough, with enough loans at a lower level to form some decent opinion about his career here, though I also trust Monty there too!

[Brightside]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

That’s a shocking thing to say tbh.

[sleeping giant]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.


That's a shocking post.

Why does Campbel get such a hard time , or Lewis , Hanlon etc?

[mcohibs]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

Think it says more about you that race even crossed your mind. Weird post.

[CentreForward]

Am still convinced that the only reason why he has suddenly been getting a game is the strong Benfica link in our management team.

[Brooster]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

That is a horrific comment to make. Both are being singled out because they didn't play very well and people think we have better players who can take their place. Nothing whatsoever to do with race. Horrendous comment.

[the_ginger_hibee]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

Some of the posts that people get banned for on here yet you can spout this race baiting, insensitive to actual racism & trouble making nonsense.

[BoomtownHibees]

It does strike me that Rocky and Jair are given a hard time. Almost like folks are waiting to pounce. Sincerely hope that there’s no joining the dots and some prejudices have been at work.

This is a shocker

[Centre Hawf]

Am still convinced that the only reason why he has suddenly been getting a game is the strong Benfica link in our management team.

He’s played about 70 minutes out of 180 since the new manager came in. It’s clear that it’s just a last chance saloon to see if we can get a tune out of him instead of some sort of Benfica link.

I also think there’s probably been absolutely zero appetite in the last two windows for anyone to take him from us and we’re trying to shop window him a bit. Easier to get someone to take him when he’s got minutes in the legs in the senior setup as opposed to playing Dunbar.

[CentreForward]

He’s played about 70 minutes out of 180 since the new manager came in. It’s clear that it’s just a last chance saloon to see if we can get a tune out of him instead of some sort of Benfica link.

I also think there’s probably been absolutely zero appetite in the last two windows for anyone to take him from us and we’re trying to shop window him a bit. Easier to get someone to take him when he’s got minutes in the legs in the senior setup as opposed to playing Dunbar.


Possibly but still think the Benfica connection has helped him. I also think that’s poor management to play a player simply to put him in the shop window if he really doesn’t justify his place. That might suggest that his selection is coming from somewhere higher up the tree than Monty. Not sure if Monty would stand for that.

[sleeping giant]

Possibly but still think the Benfica connection has helped him. I also think that’s poor management to play a player simply to put him in the shop window if he really doesn’t justify his place. That might suggest that his selection is coming from somewhere higher up the tree than Monty. Not sure if Monty would stand for that.

Did you not hear Monty talking about him?
Rates him and says his attitude has been magnificent so deserved a chance while Youan was rested .