Paul Hanlon

[we are hibs]

The sun are reporting that Paul Hanlon will be one of a number of senior players leaving in the summer.


A Hibernian legend.

[Haymaker]

Will be a sad day.

[Hibeesdaft16]

I can't help but feel this would be a bad move. He's not a first choice at the moment though and can't begrudge Paul for wanting to prolong his career.

A proper Hibernian legend.

[Pretty Boy]

He's only 34. I think his days as a starter at Hibs are done but he more than likely still has ambitions to play regularly. If that isn't going to be at Hibs then it's probably best for all parties we call it a day and he goes off and sees out his career elsewhere.

A fine servant but I think it's probably about the right time for both him and us.

[greenlex]

It’s time for him to move on if he wants to continue to play. Both him and Stevenson. They still have something to offer but perhaps not at the level we need or want to be.

[Northernhibee]

Very sad. He’s got some legacy here.

[hibee-boys]

Senior players? Hanlon, Stevenson and Marshall perhaps.

[Bridge hibs]

Players have to move on at some point in their careers or they retire/move into coaching and at 34 he has been a great servant to the club as well as playing a major part in that fantastic Scottish cup win and Im sure he will enjoy playing for another club for a year or two

Wish him nothing but the best

[Bridge hibs]

Senior players? Hanlon, Stevenson and Marshall perhaps.Alf probably too

[The Modfather]

A sad, but correct decision IMO. Don’t think any of the out of contract players warrant an extension. Especially hard to make a case for the defenders out of contract given how long we have struggled with the basics of defending for a number of seasons.

[JKeatings]

Hanlon and Stevenson gave it their all for years, some mistakes along the way but effort was never in doubt.

[eastmainsmsh]

Australia for Paul ?

[B.H.F.C]

A sad, but correct decision IMO. Don’t think any of the out of contract players warrant an extension. Especially hard to make a case for the defenders out of contract given how long we have struggled with the basics of defending for a number of seasons.

This is it for me. Anyone out of contract should be moved on IMO.

Hanlon has had his time and lived the dream.

[SHODAN]

Un-based

[IberianHibernian]

A sad, but correct decision IMO. Don’t think any of the out of contract players warrant an extension. Especially hard to make a case for the defenders out of contract given how long we have struggled with the basics of defending for a number of seasons.What decision ? We`re in the first half of February with lots of players whose contracts finish this summer including some who have just arrived . Hanlon was part of a successful defence last season .

[Bakerman]

Maybe one day we'll see Paul, Lewy, and Darren as the management dream team. A force to be reckoned with. A sad day when Paul leaves, he seems to have been at the club forever. A real legend.

[Fuzzywuzzy]

Not sure why but always thought Hanlon and Stevenson would end up at Dunfermline

[BILLYHIBS]

It’s all a Hun plot to unsettle the group before the big game

This is only the beginning next thing they’ll be offering pre contract agreements to our star players 😀

Charge them £36 and reduce their allocation

[HoboHarry]

Not sure why but always thought Hanlon and Stevenson would end up at Dunfermline

Isn't Stevenson originally from that part of the world?

[Chipper1875]

Not sure why but always thought Hanlon and Stevenson would end up at Dunfermline

Believe Lewy heading to
Raith

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

Not sure why but always thought Hanlon and Stevenson would end up at Dunfermline

Think Stevenson is a Raith Rovers fan

[Hibeesdaft16]

Isn't Stevenson originally from that part of the world?

Kirkcaldy.

[HoboHarry]

Kirkcaldy.

Ah, my mistake.

[Scooter]

Alf probably too

I'd be offering him another year. Very intelligent player

[Nicho87]

Think Stevenson is a Raith Rovers fan

Defo not a rovers fan.

I’m originally from Kirkcaldy met him a few times on nights out in both our younger years. Not a rovers fan.

[Hibeesdaft16]

Defo not a rovers fan.

I’m originally from Kirkcaldy met him a few times on nights out in both our younger years. Not a rovers fan.

Sevco fan growing up.

[Donegal Hibby]

Kirkcaldy.

Always thought he was from Krypton.:greengrin

[HoboHarry]

Time marches on relentlessly I know but it's going to feel like the end of an era if they are going. Wee Lewis is one of my all time favourite Hibs players

[Hibeesdaft16]

Always thought he was from Krypton.:greengrin

:greengrin

[hibee_girl]

I hope Lewis just retires. I don’t want to see him playing for anyone else.

[Smartie]

Paul Hanlon has the potential to be a fantastic signing for someone.

I think we’d be higher up the league than we are if we’d played him every week all this season.

[wookie70]

Perhaps he is looking to use his degree and start another career. It will be a sad day when Paul and Lewis are not at the club. I hope Lewis remains as a coach as I'd like every player to make use of their ability the way he has

[RIP]

Other than Hanlon, how many permanent centre-halves do we have on our books?

[Fuzzywuzzy]

Lives dulloch way (or used to)

[CapitalGreen]

All the best to him in his future endeavours, he will leave as a cup winning legend.

[Liberal Hibby]

Aren't both Paul and Lewis doing their coaching badges at ER?

[EdinMike]

I hope Lewis just retires. I don’t want to see him playing for anyone else.

This, it would brake my heart !

[Hibeesdaft16]

Other than Hanlon, how many permanent centre-halves do we have on our books?

Rocky.

[LewysGot2]

Other than Hanlon, how many permanent centre-halves do we have on our books?

Bushiri?

[Haymaker]

This, it would brake my heart !

Would like to see him join the "one club man"

[Irish_Steve]

I have watched Paul and Lewis do the half-time kick about thing (it's rare that they both start together - cue someone say it was last week lol) and often wonder that we must be the only club at the minute that has two players with over 1,000 appearances between then messing around at half time

[Greensunshine]

Players move on, it’s part and parcel of football.

He’ll go down in history as a club legend, he can hold his head high in the fact he always gave 100% and put his body on the line.

Thanks Paul, and good luck! Haste ye back! 🇳🇬🇳🇬👏👏👏👏

[Dashing Bob S]

It’s time they left. Best for them and the club. Absolute legends, the pair of them.

[gbhibby]

Aren't both Paul and Lewis doing their coaching badges at ER?
Did Paul not get a sports business degree recently

[ancient hibee]

As sure as night follows day we draw Rangers in the cup and the press start printing stuff about the club that just may unsettle the team.

[SON OF PADDY]

I'd be offering him another year. Very intelligent player


I'll be gutted,if Alf isn't offered a extension.

[1875Sean]

I’d give me another year, even as back up would play 10-15 games a season unless he wants to play week in and out

[007]

I’d give me another year, even as back up would play 10-15 games a season unless he wants to play week in and out

Who are you? Hanlon? 😀

[McGruber]

I’d give me another year, even as back up would play 10-15 games a season unless he wants to play week in and out

You and Hanlon!

I agree though, would have given him another year. On the plus side, we will be building a good team next season if the guy we have tried and failed to replace in the first team with better for the last 15 years won't be good enough for squad cover.

Although, he may want to play on regular which is fair enough.

Club legends and amazing ambassador's on and off the field. Will be a sad day

[Greensunshine]

I’d give me another year, even as back up would play 10-15 games a season unless he wants to play week in and out

Ye I wouldn’t argue with that.

[Hibeesdaft16]

Who are you? Hanlon? 😀

Sean O'Hanlon? :wink: :greengrin

[silverhibee]

I hope Lewis just retires. I don’t want to see him playing for anyone else.

If he retires from playing then Hibs should be offering him a coaching role at the club.

[Centre Hawf]

Have to agree that if both of them, at the very least Paul, were happy being the cheaper back up players then I’d probably keep them for one more year.

[PHeffernan]

The sun are reporting that Paul Hanlon will be one of a number of senior players leaving in the summer.


A Hibernian legend.

A 2 page thread on a non report in a tabloid based on Hanlon's contract being up in less than 4 months. Tabloid click bait for numpty's.
They know the square root of zero but are creating content.
It has no more truth in it than someone saying the same thing on here.
It is meaningless guff.

Stevenson, Le Fondre, Marshall (and young
Robbie Hamilton) are also out of contract in the summer.
So three more vacuous reports waiting to be written by a "journalist".

[tamh]

Maybe one day we'll see Paul, Lewy, and Darren as the management dream team. A force to be reckoned with. A sad day when Paul leaves, he seems to have been at the club forever. A real legend.
²
Craig Gordon gets an extension and an ambassador role at hearts..They know how to treat a legend.
. We have to get average age down. WTF.

[Cocaine&Caviar]

Edinburgh City...

[One Day]

The sun are reporting that Paul Hanlon will be one of a number of senior players leaving in the summer.


A Hibernian legend.

Players get older, they move on or retire, its a fact of life. Whatever he does or where ever he goes he'll always be Hibs hero. His goal at Tynecastle will never be forgotten.

[tonyrougier123]

Paul Hanlon still has plenty to offer in his football career total pro.
And if he is leaving at the end of the season he still has plenty to offer hibs until then, based on how bad the defence we have has is. If Montgomery decides to explore different formations at the back Paul has experience and know how to help keep the goals out.

[Wilson]

²
Craig Gordon gets an extension and an ambassador role at hearts..They know how to treat a legend.
. We have to get average age down. WTF.

They've not got as many legends to accommodate. An ambassador role for Gordon and a statue of Skacel to scare the kids at Halloween. That's it. If we start with Conrad Logan then there really is no room at the trough.

[Jim44]

Lives dulloch way (or used to)

Still there ……. lives down the road from my son.

[Heisenberg]

²
Craig Gordon gets an extension and an ambassador role at hearts..They know how to treat a legend.
. We have to get average age down. WTF.

David Gray and Darren McGregor have been given plenty from the club. If Hanlon wants to keep playing and that’s not something we can offer on a regular basis then he’s obviously going to want to see what else he can get. He’ll back back at some point. Same with Stevenson.

I’d 100% keep him at the club but it appears it’s not happening. Big job in the summer to sign a few central defenders.

[Iain G]

Sad but positive if true. Clearing the decks, making physical and financial room for better players and allowing a path for youngsters to get into the first team squad.

[Cocaine&Caviar]

For reference,

Stevenson on 596 games for Hibs (4th), needs 617 top match Stanton in 3rd - unlikely if leaves this summer.

Hanlon on 558, so no realistic opportunity to leapfrog anyone.

Also worth noting, although only for a short spell, Hanlon did have his loan in Perth, so isnt a one-club man.

[Dmas]

Sad but positive if true. Clearing the decks, making physical and financial room for better players and allowing a path for youngsters to get into the first team squad.

There doesn’t seem to be any young cbs at the club capable of the step up, I’m sure they would have seen game time leading up to Jan if so and Bevan wouldn’t have been signed either, a lot of pressure to bring in 3 cbs in the summer a year extension for Paul could have eased that

[Iain G]

There doesn’t seem to be any young cbs at the club capable of the step up, I’m sure they would have seen game time leading up to Jan if so and Bevan wouldn’t have been signed either, a lot of pressure to bring in 3 cbs in the summer a year extension for Paul could have eased that

Didn't we have one of the young guys on the bench recently, Blaney I think? Personally think PH could stay on for one more year as cover and for transition but would.have no issues with him leaving. As others would say, he is part of a squad that has seen off a lot of managers 😁

[Murphys Touch]

Sad but positive if true. Clearing the decks, making physical and financial room for better players and allowing a path for youngsters to get into the first team squad.

This 100% - you just have to look at the threads when Hanlon/Lewis play and the results are not favourable. There are plenty comments about "Get rid" or "Why are they still playing". You can argue most of these are overreactions but now there is a glimmer of them leaving there is now "give them another year" or "keep them at the club"

I personally think these guys have been wonderful servants of the club and the likes we wont see again. However they have also been senior players in a very poor period at the club and we've have all lamented the lack of leadership in the changing room. Nothing against the guys but fresh faces, voices are needed. They have been exposed playing in poor teams and sadly we need people who are solid and dependable in poor teams.

I also agree with Smartie that Hanlon could have been an really strong presence in the team but feel he needs a really good/strong partner is needed. And we aren't going to get that while Paul is there.

Thank you, good luck....always welcome etc etc

[SickBoy32]

A bold move to allow the best centre half to leave the club in the summer.

Pressure on the recruitment team to get in a few decent centre backs given who we currently have contracted for next year…

[easty]

Sad but positive if true. Clearing the decks, making physical and financial room for better players and allowing a path for youngsters to get into the first team squad.

Whose youngsters? Not ours.

[Hibeesdaft16]

Whose youngsters? Not ours.

Other teams loanees.

[Centre Hawf]

This 100% - you just have to look at the threads when Hanlon/Lewis play and the results are not favourable. There are plenty comments about "Get rid" or "Why are they still playing". You can argue most of these are overreactions but now there is a glimmer of them leaving there is now "give them another year" or "keep them at the club"

I personally think these guys have been wonderful servants of the club and the likes we wont see again. However they have also been senior players in a very poor period at the club and we've have all lamented the lack of leadership in the changing room. Nothing against the guys but fresh faces, voices are needed. They have been exposed playing in poor teams and sadly we need people who are solid and dependable in poor teams.

I also agree with Smartie that Hanlon could have been an really strong presence in the team but feel he needs a really good/strong partner is needed. And we aren't going to get that while Paul is there.

Thank you, good luck....always welcome etc etc


Because some people are physically incapable of actually watching how we concede sometimes. Right back gets rinsed or Will Fish drops a clanger and lets them get behind and score and it's Paul and Lewy's fault for merely existing. When they both leave it will be Joe Newell who gets it tight in their absence even if he doesn't drop a pass or wins the ball back 10 times.

[easty]

Because some people are physically incapable of actually watching how we concede sometimes. Right back gets rinsed or Will Fish drops a clanger and lets them get behind and score and it's Paul and Lewy's fault for merely existing. When they both leave it will be Joe Newell who gets it tight in their absence even if he doesn't drop a pass or wins the ball back 10 times.

:agree:

And if you dare to be balanced and say it was nothing to do with Hanlon or Stevenson then you're accused of "accepting mediocrity" or something.

[Since452]

Both Hanlon and Stevenson, at one point in time have been really good players for us. I don't think we'd have been relegated under Butcher if Hanlon wasn't injured for example. Stevenson has been dependable for years and rarely let us down. Time catches up with everyone though and it's the right decision.

[Bushwoof]

I can't understand this 'time they moved on' guff. Would we have been saying the same about Pat Stanton? Paul and Lewy are club legends (OK not quite at the same level as Stanton, although they both achieved something he never did) and deserve more than that. If Paul decided to go for more regular football elsewhere I'd understand but be disappointed, but if it's a choice between him next year or some random as yet unknown - because we have no-one other than Rocky under contract - then I know who I'd prefer.

[jacomo]

:agree:

And if you dare to be balanced and say it was nothing to do with Hanlon or Stevenson then you're accused of "accepting mediocrity" or something.


Just waiting for someone to tell us they’re not good enough ‘for where we want to go’.

I’m not sure where this is, but we definitely haven’t got there.

I’d love both Paul and Lewis to see out their entire playing careers at Hibs. That would be a special and rare thing.

[Brightside]

The sun are reporting that Paul Hanlon will be one of a number of senior players leaving in the summer.


A Hibernian legend.

They are stretching the use of the word Exclusive.

[Brightside]

A 2 page thread on a non report in a tabloid based on Hanlon's contract being up in less than 4 months. Tabloid click bait for numpty's.
They know the square root of zero but are creating content.
It has no more truth in it than someone saying the same thing on here.
It is meaningless guff.

Stevenson, Le Fondre, Marshall (and young
Robbie Hamilton) are also out of contract in the summer.
So three more vacuous reports waiting to be written by a "journalist".

TBF its pretty common knowledge now. Fully expect him to go to one of 2 Prem clubs at the end of the season.

[Kato]

I can't understand this 'time they moved on' guff. Would we have been saying the same about Pat Stanton? Paul and Lewy are club legends (OK not quite at the same level as Stanton, although they both achieved something he never did) and deserve more than that. If Paul decided to go for more regular football elsewhere I'd understand but be disappointed, but if it's a choice between him next year or some random as yet unknown - because we have no-one other than Rocky under contract - then I know who I'd prefer.Stanton was playing in what was still a top class league and when he moved he won a League and Cup double. No one wanted him to leave but we got the best out of that deal.

Whatever the clubs plans for next season I wish Paul and Lewis all the best.

Sent from my SM-A528B using Tapatalk

[Murphys Touch]

Because some people are physically incapable of actually watching how we concede sometimes. Right back gets rinsed or Will Fish drops a clanger and lets them get behind and score and it's Paul and Lewy's fault for merely existing. When they both leave it will be Joe Newell who gets it tight in their absence even if he doesn't drop a pass or wins the ball back 10 times.

I kind of agree but Hanlon has been called "soft" and "weak" as a centre half plenty of times recently. Are they the worst players - absolutely not. I actually think PH should be in the team every week

However - the stats and data doesn't lie and they have both been part of bang average/failing Hibs squads that have contributed to high manager (and money!) turnover. As a fanbase, we have constantly criticised the mindset/ruthlessness of our teams and I think having a freshness in that sense is welcome

Difficult one not to let heart rule the head.....but I feel this timing is right.

[Allant1981]

A bold move to allow the best centre half to leave the club in the summer.

Pressure on the recruitment team to get in a few decent centre backs given who we currently have contracted for next year…

That's the problem, if hanlon is the best(personally don't think he is) then that's the reason he needs to go, we need younger and better players than hanlon(like fish) if we are to progress, hanlon has been a good player for us but its probably the right time for him to go

[The Modfather]

I can't understand this 'time they moved on' guff. Would we have been saying the same about Pat Stanton? Paul and Lewy are club legends (OK not quite at the same level as Stanton, although they both achieved something he never did) and deserve more than that. If Paul decided to go for more regular football elsewhere I'd understand but be disappointed, but if it's a choice between him next year or some random as yet unknown - because we have no-one other than Rocky under contract - then I know who I'd prefer.

“Time they moved on guff” ? It looks like a natural time to part ways without anyone having to be forced out the door IMO

I think those saying he’s still our best defender are doing so because of who he is rather than what he is doing on the park. Hanlon, Fish, Rocky are all much of a muchness IMO. Capable of good games before a poor spell where they all couldn’t argue about being dropped. We can’t have the defensive record we do and have struggled to defend basic crosses for seasons now with any of them escaping any responsibility for that either individually or collectively.

[Brightside]

“Time they moved on guff” ? It looks like a natural time to part ways without anyone having to be forced out the door IMO

I think those saying he’s still our best defender are doing so because of who he is rather than what he is doing on the park. Hanlon, Fish, Rocky are all much of a muchness IMO. Capable of good games before a poor spell where they all couldn’t argue about being dropped. We can’t have the defensive record we do and have struggled to defend basic crosses for seasons now with any of them escaping any responsibility for that either individually or collectively.

Hanlon is miles better than Rocky.

[The Modfather]

Hanlon is miles better than Rocky.

A fair opinion. I don’t see much difference between any of them. They all have their strengths and limitations and no two from the 3 compliment each other or make a case the others are the problem and not them IMO.

[Allant1981]

A fair opinion. I don’t see much difference between any of them. They all have their strengths and limitations and no two from the 3 compliment each other or make a case the others are the problem and not them IMO.

Yip miles ahead is a bit of an exaggeration imo, rocky is quicker and stronger and better at coming out from the back, hanlon a better passer of the ball. None of them are particularly good at tackling or heading. We need to improve on both of them if we are to continually get into europe

[SickBoy32]

Just waiting for someone to tell us they’re not good enough ‘for where we want to go’.

I’m not sure where this is, but we definitely haven’t got there.

I’d love both Paul and Lewis to see out their entire playing careers at Hibs. That would be a special and rare thing.

Spot on, had hoped both would retire at ER.

You don’t get to the mystical land of ‘where we want to be’ by letting our best players walk out the door, you do that by offloading the *****.

This is undoubtedly a gamble from the club and I don’t think anyone would really be surprised to see it backfire next year, particularly given the abysmal recruitment in recent years.

[supermcginn]

Hanlon is miles better than Rocky.

He's miles slower, that's why Rocky has been picked more often than Paul. Good luck to him at his next club.

[B.H.F.C]

Spot on, had hoped both would retire at ER.

You don’t get to the mystical land of ‘where we want to be’ by letting our best players walk out the door, you do that by offloading the *****.

This is undoubtedly a gamble from the club and I don’t think anyone would really be surprised to see it backfire next year, particularly given the abysmal recruitment in recent years.

How much can it really backfire? Hanlon has been in and out the team all season and when he’s been in, we’ve still struggled defensively. It’s not as if we’ll be letting a player go who has made a huge difference when playing this season.

[Northernhibee]

That's the problem, if hanlon is the best(personally don't think he is) then that's the reason he needs to go, we need younger and better players than hanlon(like fish) if we are to progress, hanlon has been a good player for us but its probably the right time for him to go

That doesn’t make sense. You keep the best and replace the weakest with players who will overtake who the best are, and continue that cycle.

[Brightside]

He's miles slower, that's why Rocky has been picked more often than Paul. Good luck to him at his next club.

PH 23 - RB 21 this season.

[Trinity Hibee]

²
Craig Gordon gets an extension and an ambassador role at hearts..They know how to treat a legend.
. We have to get average age down. WTF.

Do they? Making Willie bauld pay for the ball at his testimonial. Didn’t give Cruikshank a testimonial at all as he lobbied for better wages. Not exactly treating legends well.

[Centre Hawf]

I kind of agree but Hanlon has been called "soft" and "weak" as a centre half plenty of times recently. Are they the worst players - absolutely not. I actually think PH should be in the team every week

However - the stats and data doesn't lie and they have both been part of bang average/failing Hibs squads that have contributed to high manager (and money!) turnover. As a fanbase, we have constantly criticised the mindset/ruthlessness of our teams and I think having a freshness in that sense is welcome

Difficult one not to let heart rule the head.....but I feel this timing is right.

I actually think the weak and soft tag is a bit overdone tbh. He's been beaten at times but so has every centre half, it's just something that gets attributed to him every 6 months when we concede a goal through him losing a header or similar. I also think the second part about them being part of bang average/failing squads is a bit lazy, Martin Boyle has also seen off a bunch of managers but I don't see people trying to get rid of him? Hanlon has been part of some successful squads as well so surely needs credit for that if he's getting pelters for being part of rank ones?

Ask yourself this, since Paul made his debut in 2008 how many centre halves have we permanently signed and how many of them have, at any point in their Hibs careers, been better than Paul has been in even this shambles of the past 18 months that hasn't even seen his finest form either?

Daz McGregor
Liam Fontaine
Efe Ambrose

Those are probably the only three I would say, I've left out Porto as he was an academy graduate and I think Fish has good potential but still has work to do and is probably on par with Paul still and is a loan.

Only three of our permanently signed defenders in the last 16 years would be an upgrade on the current Paul Hanlon we have. That doesn't give me faith that we'll replace him with better as we've failed to do so for 16 years as is, even more so under this recruitment regime.

It just comes down for me a case of careful what you wish for if he was to leave and better succession planning is in order than just letting the guy walk out the door out of some false sense of superiority that we can get better, no doubt from some European league.

[Brightside]

Also the teams that want him are actually above us in the league. So I can only assume we have some top class players lined up for summer.

[He's here!]

A 2 page thread on a non report in a tabloid based on Hanlon's contract being up in less than 4 months. Tabloid click bait for numpty's.
They know the square root of zero but are creating content.
It has no more truth in it than someone saying the same thing on here.
It is meaningless guff.

Stevenson, Le Fondre, Marshall (and young
Robbie Hamilton) are also out of contract in the summer.
So three more vacuous reports waiting to be written by a "journalist".

I think it's likely to be close to the mark. Reasonable to assume Monty wants to reshape the squad and the older pros aren't going to figure in his long-term plans.

[Pretty Boy]

Spot on, had hoped both would retire at ER.

You don’t get to the mystical land of ‘where we want to be’ by letting our best players walk out the door, you do that by offloading the *****.

This is undoubtedly a gamble from the club and I don’t think anyone would really be surprised to see it backfire next year, particularly given the abysmal recruitment in recent years.

Are they our best players now?

You could probably still just about make a case for Paul being our best CB but Obita has done what so many failed to do and unseated Lewis from his position at LB. He's 36 now and 2nd string for a Hibs team sitting in the bottom 6 more than half way through the season. That's not meant as disrespectful to either player, it's just realistic to say that Lewis Stevenson now isn't the player he was 5 or 6 years ago. Same is true of Hanlon albeit his injuries have probably robbed him off another year or 2 at Hibs. You can be full of praise for the careers they have had at Hibs whilst still acknowledging that time waits for no man and if they don't leave this summer it's only delaying the inevitable.

I get that it's a risk but clubs have to make these decisions, particularly clubs like Hibs were the budget is finite. As fans we can be emotive about these things but for the club it is ultimately a hard nosed football decision and sentiment will play a very small part in their thinking. It's just the reality of football, clubs have to optimise the budget and space in the squad they have available to them and that means no one has a job for life based on past exploits. It's happened at countless clubs down the years and will happen again for years to come. Both players have had a better run than most and I hope they both go on and enjoy a couple of good years elsewhere.

[Hermit Crab]

Lives dulloch way (or used to)



He does, he stays about 4/5 houses away from me.

[He's here!]

Stanton was playing in what was still a top class league and when he moved he won a League and Cup double. No one wanted him to leave but we got the best out of that deal.

Whatever the clubs plans for next season I wish Paul and Lewis all the best.

Sent from my SM-A528B using Tapatalk

Do you mean Stanton got the best out of the deal (ie completed the treble of domestic honours by moving to Celtic)? I know Jackie McNamara coming our way was part of the deal and he was a good player for Hibs, but our trajectory was very much downwards as the Tornadoes left one by one.

[CapitalGreen]

Also the teams that want him are actually above us in the league. So I can only assume we have some top class players lined up for summer.

St Mirren are above us and just signed James Scott.

[Smartie]

A fair opinion. I don’t see much difference between any of them. They all have their strengths and limitations and no two from the 3 compliment each other or make a case the others are the problem and not them IMO.

I'd say Hanlon and Fish compliment each other quite well, they certainly did last season when both had a good run of form. None of them have been helped this season by the lack of a settled back 4, particularly under Monty. There's been no time for anyone to develop any sort of understanding.

I also have a hunch that our centre halves will suddenly look better now we have a more respectable centre of midfield.

[Hibeesdaft16]

St Mirren are above us and just signed James Scott.


Goes to show the budgets of the teams that are currently above us.

It wouldn't surprise me in the slightest if Hanlon was playing for the manager of the club 10 points ahead of us in fourth and that many of our support turn our noses up at next season. :agree:

[Allant1981]

That doesn’t make sense. You keep the best and replace the weakest with players who will overtake who the best are, and continue that cycle.

I have clearly said I don't think he is the best

[Murphys Touch]

I actually think the weak and soft tag is a bit overdone tbh. He's been beaten at times but so has every centre half, it's just something that gets attributed to him every 6 months when we concede a goal through him losing a header or similar. I also think the second part about them being part of bang average/failing squads is a bit lazy, Martin Boyle has also seen off a bunch of managers but I don't see people trying to get rid of him? Hanlon has been part of some successful squads as well so surely needs credit for that if he's getting pelters for being part of rank ones?

Ask yourself this, since Paul made his debut in 2008 how many centre halves have we permanently signed and how many of them have, at any point in their Hibs careers, been better than Paul has been in even this shambles of the past 18 months that hasn't even seen his finest form either?

Daz McGregor
Liam Fontaine
Efe Ambrose

Those are probably the only three I would say, I've left out Porto as he was an academy graduate and I think Fish has good potential but still has work to do and is probably on par with Paul still and is a loan.

Only three of our permanently signed defenders in the last 16 years would be an upgrade on the current Paul Hanlon we have. That doesn't give me faith that we'll replace him with better as we've failed to do so for 16 years as is, even more so under this recruitment regime.

It just comes down for me a case of careful what you wish for if he was to leave and better succession planning is in order than just letting the guy walk out the door out of some false sense of superiority that we can get better, no doubt from some European league.

I tend to agree - but also there is a natural time and that is contract expiry time. He'll (quite rightly btw) be on top £££ and would be 35/36 next review stage. He maybe wants to play every week and Hibs can't facilitate that.

Again, take out the "on-pitch" attributes (which I agree with you on) I have never pictured Paul (or Lewis) being an up and at him character in the changing room. Leading by example is fine but I, personally, feel we need another type of character in there. I would lump Newell in with the same logic. Constant timid performances, including derbies, shouldn't be happening.

No doubt when both Paul/Lewis leaves we will miss them....all players that leave instantly become better (again, thread on here last week about Gogic coming back FFS)

[Kato]

Do you mean Stanton got the best out of the deal (ie completed the treble of domestic honours by moving to Celtic)? I know Jackie McNamara coming our way was part of the deal and he was a good player for Hibs, but our trajectory was very much downwards as the Tornadoes left one by one.I meant we signed a great player who at times was crucial to us in the 10 years he played for us in return for Pat who only played one more season before retiring at the beginning of the next. I don't think McNamara was responsible for our downward trend but he certainly helped us stay up a couple of seasons.

Sent from my SM-A528B using Tapatalk

[The Modfather]

I'd say Hanlon and Fish compliment each other quite well, they certainly did last season when both had a good run of form. None of them have been helped this season by the lack of a settled back 4, particularly under Monty. There's been no time for anyone to develop any sort of understanding.

I also have a hunch that our centre halves will suddenly look better now we have a more respectable centre of midfield.

That’s a fair point about having a new midfield in front of the defence and also not having to play 16 year old RB’s.

However while I think it will help reduce crosses it won’t address the fundamental issue Hanlon/Rocky/Fish have in defending basic crosses. The Killmarnock & Motherwell games being recent examples where it wasn’t about midfield protection, getting outnumbered, formations etc. I think those 3 are fine, generally, positionally and 1 on 1. However they are always liable to ship a goal to a cross each game. I’d replace all 3 with two centre backs that enjoy defending and winning headers (McGregor, Fontaine, Jones types). They don’t need to be fancy on the ball, just able to pass it 10 yards to the fullback or midfield. We can then look to upgrade to players more like Ambrose or Porteous in the next few windows from a position of strength.

[superfurryhibby]

Do you mean Stanton got the best out of the deal (ie completed the treble of domestic honours by moving to Celtic)? I know Jackie McNamara coming our way was part of the deal and he was a good player for Hibs, but our trajectory was very much downwards as the Tornadoes left one by one.

I think we can separate the reasons for the demise of the side, the departure of Stanton and the arrival of McNamara.

Hibs got a player that served us well for nine years. Someone remembered fondly by all who saw him play as a fantastic footballer. Pat got his league and Scottish Cup medals.

There were no losers in that deal really.

Paul Hanlon has been a great Hibernian, but his time is up for me. I think we'll all agree that he's had a very good career and be grateful for his service.

[Chipper1875]

That’s a fair point about having a new midfield in front of the defence and also not having to play 16 year old RB’s.

However while I think it will help reduce crosses it won’t address the fundamental issue Hanlon/Rocky/Fish have in defending basic crosses. The Killmarnock & Motherwell games being recent examples where it wasn’t about midfield protection, getting outnumbered, formations etc. I think those 3 are fine, generally, positionally and 1 on 1. However they are always liable to ship a goal to a cross each game. I’d replace all 3 with two centre backs that enjoy defending and winning headers (McGregor, Fontaine, Jones types). They don’t need to be fancy on the ball, just able to pass it 10 yards to the fullback or midfield. We can then look to upgrade to players more like Ambrose or Porteous in the next few windows from a position of strength.

Throw obita into the mix . Last three games, crosses over his head , he’s lost the player and leads to St Mirren and Celtics first goal. Also , ICT player hits the bar . Obita also not great at stopping the crosses coming in . As a team , we are weak at defending and poor out of possession.

[SickBoy32]

How much can it really backfire? Hanlon has been in and out the team all season and when he’s been in, we’ve still struggled defensively. It’s not as if we’ll be letting a player go who has made a huge difference when playing this season.

It can backfire if we don't replace him with a player of equal or better calibre. I'd say it's quite likely we'll go down the potential route (again), so it's by no means a certainty that his replacement will be an improvement. Time will tell on that.


Are they our best players now?

You could probably still just about make a case for Paul being our best CB but Obita has done what so many failed to do and unseated Lewis from his position at LB. He's 36 now and 2nd string for a Hibs team sitting in the bottom 6 more than half way through the season. That's not meant as disrespectful to either player, it's just realistic to say that Lewis Stevenson now isn't the player he was 5 or 6 years ago. Same is true of Hanlon albeit his injuries have probably robbed him off another year or 2 at Hibs. You can be full of praise for the careers they have had at Hibs whilst still acknowledging that time waits for no man and if they don't leave this summer it's only delaying the inevitable.

I get that it's a risk but clubs have to make these decisions, particularly clubs like Hibs were the budget is finite. As fans we can be emotive about these things but for the club it is ultimately a hard nosed football decision and sentiment will play a very small part in their thinking. It's just the reality of football, clubs have to optimise the budget and space in the squad they have available to them and that means no one has a job for life based on past exploits. It's happened at countless clubs down the years and will happen again for years to come. Both players have had a better run than most and I hope they both go on and enjoy a couple of good years elsewhere.

I think it's quite clear that Hanlon is still our best centre half, I'd agree that Stevenson has been dislodged by a more effective player in Obita (although if Stevenson had cost the same number of goals that Obita has, I'm sure we'd be hearing a lot more about it...)

Whilst I agree with your points about sentiment etc and the need for the club to prioritise ability - Hibs need to be very careful about letting all of our 'identity' walk out the door. As covered on another thread, we have a rapidly dwindling band of players who truly understand the club, being replaced by transient journeymen briefly pulling on the jersey, as they bounce from one club to the next.

We'll be left with only Bushiri and Harbottle for next year at centre half (plus whoever is signed obviously), I think this is a very rash decision to be honest. I'd rather let either (or both!) of those guys leave, than Hanlon.

Hopefully the club have some excellent CBs lined up.

[Centre Hawf]

I tend to agree - but also there is a natural time and that is contract expiry time. He'll (quite rightly btw) be on top £££ and would be 35/36 next review stage. He maybe wants to play every week and Hibs can't facilitate that.

Again, take out the "on-pitch" attributes (which I agree with you on) I have never pictures Paul (or Lewis) being an up and at him character in the changing room. Leading by example is fine but I, personally, feel we need another type of character in there. I would lump Newell in with the same logic.

No doubt when both Paul/Lewis leaves we will miss them....all players that leave instantly become better (again, thread on here last week about Gogic coming back FFS)

Yeah I think if Paul outrightly says "do you know what, I actually want to spend my twilight years playing week in week out even if it's for St Johnstone/Killie" and we're only offering him a sort of back up/rotation spot and a cut in wages I wouldn't blame the club because I think that's the position it should be as we try to plan for the future. The same goes for Lewy if he said he wanted to maybe do a year somewhere and try something different instead of play 10 or so games as back up.

The problem is we shouldn't be throwing either (at least Paul) aside because we think we can do better, history has shown we've rarely done so.

[superfurryhibby]

People also need to consider the current state of fitness of our 34 year old club captain.

How often does he train? Can he play week in week out?

There have been stories about him carrying injuries etc, playing through the pain barrier at times. I have no idea how much is true but I suppose that may also influence whether the club offer him another contract.

At this stage and with all the investment and the upturn in our fortunes that is apparently going to bring, it is no surprise that Hanlon won't be at Hibs next season.
I think we have to trust that Hibs can sign a better CB to replace him.

[JimBHibees]

People also need to consider the current state of fitness of our 34 year old club captain.

How often does he train? Can he play week in week out?

There have been stories about him carrying injuries etc, playing through the pain barrier at times. I have no idea how much is true but I suppose that may also influence whether the club offer him another contract.

At this stage and with all the investment and the upturn in our fortunes that is apparently going to bring, it is no surprise that Hanlon won't be at Hibs next season.
I think we have to trust that Hibs can sign a better CB to replace him.

Think that is a fair comment.

[JimBHibees]

Are they our best players now?

You could probably still just about make a case for Paul being our best CB but Obita has done what so many failed to do and unseated Lewis from his position at LB. He's 36 now and 2nd string for a Hibs team sitting in the bottom 6 more than half way through the season. That's not meant as disrespectful to either player, it's just realistic to say that Lewis Stevenson now isn't the player he was 5 or 6 years ago. Same is true of Hanlon albeit his injuries have probably robbed him off another year or 2 at Hibs. You can be full of praise for the careers they have had at Hibs whilst still acknowledging that time waits for no man and if they don't leave this summer it's only delaying the inevitable.

I get that it's a risk but clubs have to make these decisions, particularly clubs like Hibs were the budget is finite. As fans we can be emotive about these things but for the club it is ultimately a hard nosed football decision and sentiment will play a very small part in their thinking. It's just the reality of football, clubs have to optimise the budget and space in the squad they have available to them and that means no one has a job for life based on past exploits. It's happened at countless clubs down the years and will happen again for years to come. Both players have had a better run than most and I hope they both go on and enjoy a couple of good years elsewhere.

Totally agree with all of this.

[Hibeesdaft16]

People also need to consider the current state of fitness of our 34 year old club captain.

How often does he train? Can he play week in week out?

There have been stories about him carrying injuries etc, playing through the pain barrier at times. I have no idea how much is true but I suppose that may also influence whether the club offer him another contract.

At this stage and with all the investment and the upturn in our fortunes that is apparently going to bring, it is no surprise that Hanlon won't be at Hibs next season.
I think we have to trust that Hibs can sign a better CB to replace him.

You mean hope and pray if past history is anything to go by?

[superfurryhibby]

You mean hope and pray if past history is anything to go by?

Well, there is a whole brave new footballing world awaiting us apparently.

A 34 year CB isn't going to be part of that, whatever unfolds.

[eastmainsmsh]

Been terrific club Legend can mind when Gordon Hunter left also served club well under Duff Jim

[Hibeesdaft16]

Well, there is a whole brave new footballing world awaiting us apparently.

A 34 year CB isn't going to be part of that, whatever unfolds.

That's true.

[Iain G]

We need to make space for Kerr in that backline remember 😁

[chrisski33]

Hes fairly old in terms of professional playing terms and the day was coming that he would move on. All the best for one our great servants to the club.

[He's here!]

I meant we signed a great player who at times was crucial to us in the 10 years he played for us in return for Pat who only played one more season before retiring at the beginning of the next. I don't think McNamara was responsible for our downward trend but he certainly helped us stay up a couple of seasons.

Sent from my SM-A528B using Tapatalk

That's fair comment. Just a shame Turnbull wasn't able to bring enough new players in of Jackie's calibre. When you look back at the late 70s squad there were still some fine players in there but also too many sub-standard new faces. I'm still disappointed the Refvik deal didn't work out!

[HoboHarry]

I'd say Hanlon and Fish compliment each other quite well, they certainly did last season when both had a good run of form. None of them have been helped this season by the lack of a settled back 4, particularly under Monty. There's been no time for anyone to develop any sort of understanding.

I also have a hunch that our centre halves will suddenly look better now we have a more respectable centre of midfield.
Exactly right. :agree:

[WhileTheChief..]

Hanlon leaving doesn’t mean we’re binning him.

Didn’t he just graduate from uni? He maybe wants to pursue the next stage of his career away from Hibs.

Good for him for having the balls to make things happen for himself.

[Hibeesdaft16]

Hanlon leaving doesn’t mean we’re binning him.

Didn’t he just graduate from uni? He maybe wants to pursue the next stage of his career away from Hibs.

Good for him for having the balls to make things happen for himself.


He will be playing top league football next season, 100%.

[blackpoolhibs]

It's time for Hanlon to leave, thank you for the tremendous service you and Lewis have given the club.:thumbsup::top marks Good luck for the future whatever that hold for them both apart from if ever they come back in any capacity against us of course.:wink:

I'm excited about the future and who we will bring in to replace these legends. :thumbsup:

[Hermit Crab]

He will be playing top league football next season, 100%.


Hmmm, not entirely convinced that will be the case.

[Hibeesdaft16]

Hmmm, not entirely convinced that will be the case.


Have to wait and see then HC, from what I know he will be. :aok:

[Chipper1875]

Hmmm, not entirely convinced that will be the case.

What you thinking? He’ll reject the offers on the table from the teams in our league. Try something different?

[He's here!]

What you thinking? He’ll reject the offers on the table from the teams in our league. Try something different?

Depends what's on offer. Is he likely to be a regular for any top-flight side? Or would the challenge of getting, say, Dunfermline promoted appeal more? I guess the wages will probably sway whatever decision he makes but playing against Hibs after all these years at ER will seem strange for him and he might fancy something different as you say.

[Baader]

Do they? Making Willie bauld pay for the ball at his testimonial. Didn’t give Cruikshank a testimonial at all as he lobbied for better wages. Not exactly treating legends well.

Yeah. Not sure Christophe Berra would agree either.

[CapitalGreen]

What you thinking? He’ll reject the offers on the table from the teams in our league. Try something different?

Maybe he thinks he’ll sign for another club in our league but not get a game.

[Crab apple]

This, it would brake my heart !

Me too. His performance in the League Cup final v Killie will live long in my memory. He was really good for someone so young and played his part in what was a complete team performance.

[Hermit Crab]

Have to wait and see then HC, from what I know he will be. :aok:


I thought he'd like to try his hand at Australia perhaps?

[GreenPJ]

I tend to agree - but also there is a natural time and that is contract expiry time. He'll (quite rightly btw) be on top £££ and would be 35/36 next review stage. He maybe wants to play every week and Hibs can't facilitate that.

Again, take out the "on-pitch" attributes (which I agree with you on) I have never pictured Paul (or Lewis) being an up and at him character in the changing room. Leading by example is fine but I, personally, feel we need another type of character in there. I would lump Newell in with the same logic. Constant timid performances, including derbies, shouldn't be happening.

No doubt when both Paul/Lewis leaves we will miss them....all players that leave instantly become better (again, thread on here last week about Gogic coming back FFS)

Paul and Lewis might not be shouters but they are Hibs, they understand the club from top to bottom and when they have gone it will leave a whole in the playing squad not just from a commitment perspective but from having players who play for you and have/do supported the club as a fan. To try and instill that into younger players and transitional players who are here for 6 months or 3 years is something we will miss, however, sentiment is not a reason to retain them but will be a sad day when they do go although would have thought that subject to injuries Paul could perform for another 12-18 months at this level.

[Hibby Bairn]

Both played home and away v Lucerne earlier this season. Plenty left in the tank imo.

[Hibernian Verse]

He will be playing top league football next season, 100%.

Are Dunfermline making a late charge for the playoffs?

[Smartie]

Both played home and away v Lucerne earlier this season. Plenty left in the tank imo.

Both played in David Gray's solid performance up at Pittodrie as well.

It can't be denied that both have had the odd poor moment this season but I'm of the opinion that rumours of their demise have been exaggerated and premature and they both continue to offer us a lot on the park. I don't think Stevenson is a first pick any more but can happily be relied upon when the need arises and I'd still have Hanlon down as a first pick (depending on injury - and I think it's good we now have a bit more depth in that position to prevent him having to play through knocks).

Stevenson is probably having to curtail trips upfield to a point now but if we were looking to minimise crosses into our box form our left side and close out a tight game, I know which of our left backs I'd rather have on the park for that particular task.

I'd be keeping them both fwiw, and it's not out of sentiment.

[Donegal Hibby]

I also have a hunch that our centre halves will suddenly look better now we have a more respectable centre of midfield.

:agree:. Our midfield was the main problem in the team for a long time now .

[Northernhibee]

:agree:. Our midfield was the main problem in the team for a long time now .

I have an odd feeling that Moriah-Welsh will be a McGinn-esque player for us. I don’t say that lightly either.

Great attitude, covers every blade of grass as standard, neat and tidy passing, elevates players around him and destined for a very good career in the English Premiership,

[Up-the-slope]

Aren't both Paul and Lewis doing their coaching badges at ER?

Certainly It was obvious Lewis was helping with the pre-match drills and warm up at ICT

[tamh]

Both played home and away v Lucerne earlier this season. Plenty left in the tank imo.

Defo..... Big Daz retired at 37. Paul just turned 34.
Plenty left in the tank yet . Legend

[Fergus52]

If they both leave will it not scunner us for the home grown quota if we get into Europe?

the 4 players trained at the club can be made up by youth reserves no bother, but if Hanlon and Stevenson go I don't see how we can come close to making up 8 players trained in Scotland.

Unless we include 6 or 7 youth players in the squad of 25, but then surely there would have to be a senior player or two missing out?

Hopefully not an oversight by McDermott, he might need to start playing some more football manager if so :greengrin

[Centre Hawf]

If they both leave will it not scunner us for the home grown quota if we get into Europe?

the 4 players trained at the club can be made up by youth reserves no bother, but if Hanlon and Stevenson go I don't see how we can come close to making up 8 players trained in Scotland.

Unless we include 6 or 7 youth players in the squad of 25, but then surely there would have to be a senior player or two missing out?

Hopefully not an oversight by McDermott, he might need to start playing some more football manager if so :greengrin

As far as I can tell we'd only have Megwa and Campbell as 2 of the academy 4 (I think Megwa counts at least as he will in time)

Boyle and Cadden would count towards the 8 but that would still leave us 2 academy slots short and 4 overall homegrown short. Of course if we don't make it into Europe none of this matters but it's something to be aware of when the business is being done over the next window or two.

[WestStandWillie]

Assuming that rag is to be believed, both Paul and Lewis leave with a legacy in place.

As much as i'd like to see Lewis be a one man club, he still has an engine which could be put to good use in the Championship.

[I'm Spartacus]

Lives dulloch way (or used to)

PH stays in Kirkliston, about 300 yards from Wotherspoon. I wouldn't be surprised if he did end up with him at Dundee United.

During lockdown it was random seeing Hanlon, Wotherspoon and Michael Smith from Hearts all seperatly training at the local park. Wotherspoon with long curly surfer like hair on his bike complete with the child seat, Smith going greyer by the day, and Hanlon sweating more than both combined but looking like an athelete.

The days I had in the sun watching men working out in the park hahahaha the wife was starting to wonder :)

[Ronniekirk]

Paul and Lewis might not be shouters but they are Hibs, they understand the club from top to bottom and when they have gone it will leave a whole in the playing squad not just from a commitment perspective but from having players who play for you and have/do supported the club as a fan. To try and instill that into younger players and transitional players who are here for 6 months or 3 years is something we will miss, however, sentiment is not a reason to retain them but will be a sad day when they do go although would have thought that subject to injuries Paul could perform for another 12-18 months at this level.
But if he isn’t getting a game he needs to put his own needs above Hibs Obvioudly he will know if he is still in Montys plans going forward But both him and Lewis csn still make. Contribution playing at some club , if Monty feels there time is up
It’s going to be. Big overhaul in the summer and it may be he needs to clear the decks of who he can as others on longer contracts
I will be sad to see them move if that happens , but am more interested now in how our tie up with Foley snd Bournemouth is going to work for us in the summer

[Since90+2]

Good servant to the club but it's probably the right time for both parties.

[Sparrows tongue]

Sad about Paul, but probably for the best in the long run.

As another poster said, Lewis still has plenty to offer, but maybe not to us any more.

[PHeffernan]

It can backfire if we don't replace him with a player of equal or better calibre. I'd say it's quite likely we'll go down the potential route (again), so it's by no means a certainty that his replacement will be an improvement. Time will tell on that.



I think it's quite clear that Hanlon is still our best centre half, I'd agree that Stevenson has been dislodged by a more effective player in Obita (although if Stevenson had cost the same number of goals that Obita has, I'm sure we'd be hearing a lot more about it...)

Whilst I agree with your points about sentiment etc and the need for the club to prioritise ability - Hibs need to be very careful about letting all of our 'identity' walk out the door. As covered on another thread, we have a rapidly dwindling band of players who truly understand the club, being replaced by transient journeymen briefly pulling on the jersey, as they bounce from one club to the next.

We'll be left with only Bushiri and Harbottle for next year at centre half (plus whoever is signed obviously), I think this is a very rash decision to be honest. I'd rather let either (or both!) of those guys leave, than Hanlon.

Hopefully the club have some excellent CBs lined up.

Hibs contracted Centre Backs for next season: Bushiri (24), Harbottle (23), McClelland (22) and Blaney (19)

Could see Bevan (20) on loan again from Bournemouth next season

I would be giving Hanlon a year extension if his fitness is up to it in the opinion of the medical bods. He's only 34 and still our best centre half.
Would definitely be letting the 2 outfield players currently aged 36 and 37 move on. That would represent an appropriate reduction in the average age of the 1st team squad next season.
Marshall is 39 in 3 weeks but has been good since Monty came in so he may be offered reduced terms for a final season.

[Centre Hawf]

Hibs contracted Centre Backs for next season: Bushiri (24), Harbottle (23), McClelland (22) and Blaney (19)

Could see Bevan (20) on loan again from Bournemouth next season

I would be giving Hanlon a year extension if his fitness is up to it in the opinion of the medical bods. He's only 34 and still our best centre half.
Would definitely be letting the 2 outfield players currently aged 36 and 37 move on. That would represent an appropriate reduction in the average age of the 1st team squad next season.
Marshall is 39 in 3 weeks but has been good since Monty came in so he may be offered reduced terms for a final season.

I would be open to Marshall staying at Hibs next season as a back up/number 2 providing his wage demand doesn't impact us going out and signing a proper number 1 that we think could improve us. Ideally you're looking to move Wollacott on and replace him with Marshall.

Same goes for all three of the older guys to be honest.

[Brightside]

Hibs contracted Centre Backs for next season: Bushiri (24), Harbottle (23), McClelland (22) and Blaney (19)

Could see Bevan (20) on loan again from Bournemouth next season

I would be giving Hanlon a year extension if his fitness is up to it in the opinion of the medical bods. He's only 34 and still our best centre half.
Would definitely be letting the 2 outfield players currently aged 36 and 37 move on. That would represent an appropriate reduction in the average age of the 1st team squad next season.
Marshall is 39 in 3 weeks but has been good since Monty came in so he may be offered reduced terms for a final season.

Mclelland and Harbottle will deffo be away. Blaney will be away if he can work his move.

I think Paul will go no matter what - he wants to play and he's been told that wont be happening at hibs.

[PHeffernan]

Mclelland and Harbottle will deffo be away. Blaney will be away if he can work his move.

I think Paul will go no matter what - he wants to play and he's been told that wont be happening at hibs.

As things stand that would leave us with Bushiri and requiring 3 new centre backs in one transfer window which is bonkers.
Another reason to give Hanlon a years extension.

[TheHibernator]

Get him back in. He can’t be worse than triantis

[overdrive]

Get him back in. He can’t be worse than triantis

I’ve never been Hanlon’s biggest fan but he’s a much better option than Triantis. Rocky is a much better option than Triantis.

[blackpoolhibs]

I’ve never been Hanlon’s biggest fan but he’s a much better option than Triantis. Rocky is a much better option than Triantis.
Lewis Stevenson or even Darren McGregor would be a better option.

[AL-Qaholik]

We have zero competent centre halves at the club.
Triantis mights actually be the worst of the lot.

[The Modfather]

Players get better when they’re not in the team. Whoever isn’t playing is the answer, until they start playing again and whoever was dropped is back to being the answer again.

Marshall, Miller, Hanlon, Rocky, Fish, Triantis is as poor a collection of defenders, collectively and individually, as we’ve had in a long time.

[500miles]

I'd put Hanlon back in like. I think Triantis is a decent ball player, but he's got a bit to go when it comes to identifying danger. Paul is one of the best in the league at that.

[Centre Hawf]

Players get better when they’re not in the team. Whoever isn’t playing is the answer, until they start playing again and whoever was dropped is back to being the answer again.

Marshall, Miller, Hanlon, Rocky, Fish, Triantis is as poor a collection of defenders, collectively and individually, as we’ve had in a long time.

I don't think Hanlon is a long term solution but if he's the best centre half at the club (which I think he is) then he needs to play. It is as simple as that.

Petrified of whoever we recruit in the summer to play CB at this rate though.

[eastmainsmsh]

Still better than anything we have says it all needs to start

[The Modfather]

I don't think Hanlon is a long term solution but if he's the best centre half at the club (which I think he is) then he needs to play. It is as simple as that.

Petrified of whoever we recruit in the summer to play CB at this rate though.

I’m not sure any of them can lay claim to being the best centre half IMO. They’ve all played at various points throughout the season and the only constant is that we struggle defensively and concede goals. I don’t think we would concede any fewer goals than we currently do playing Hanlon (or Rocky). They are all weak individually defensively and collectively make each other less than the sum of their meagre parts.

Hanlon is elevated above the rest because of who he is rather than his performances this season IMO.

[Since90+2]

None of the centre halfs are good enough for the level we should be at, which is challenging for 3rd. They've all had a chance and none have been shown to be at the level required.

[SickBoy32]

Poor judgement from the manager to not have Hanlon start every game that he’s available. Clearly the best centre half at ER.

[number9dream]

The injured Bevan is right-sided too, isn’t he? Hanlon has to take that slot on the left with the others competing to play beside him. Triantis looks shaky but may be more comfortable on the right. Megwa might be worth considering too.

[supermcginn]

He's fourth choice now and on his way out, if Triantis is dropped it will be for Rocky.

[The Modfather]

Just had a look at the stats with and without Hanlon (not an exact science of course, but still gives some indication).

Where he had played 90 minutes v didn’t feature, league only.

Played 7 games, concedes 14. Average conceding 2 per game.

Without him featuring, including today. 11 games, 17 conceded. Average of 1.5 per game.

I’ve removed 7 games where he played from 9 minutes to 56 minutes as not got the energy to look at whether we conceded with him on the park or not.

I’d not argue this proves we’re better defensively without him. However what is the basis that “he’s out best centre half” or that he’d make a difference if Montgomery played him. Surely the evidence shows were dire defensively with and without Hanlon and opinions are being based on who he is and not his performances this season.

[1875Sean]

He's fourth choice now and on his way out, if Triantis is dropped it will be for Rocky.

I’d start him next week ahead of Triantis of rocky, out of the 3 he is a lot steadier and better with passing it out on the left

[Hibeesdaft16]

I’d start him next week ahead of Triantis of rocky, out of the 3 he is a lot steadier and better with passing it out on the left

:agree: I would actually play Hanlon and Rocky. It can't get much worse than it has been lately. Two young loanees at the centre of out defence, who thought that was a bright idea?

[RIP]

:agree: I would actually play Hanlon and Rocky. It can't get much worse than it has been lately. Two young loanees at the centre of out defence, who thought that was a bright idea?

Not Nick that's for sure.

Paul has been ill/injured and Rocky has been unavailable.

Montgomery has been able to rotate strikers during games but not the backline.