Rocky

[lucky]

Ear bleeding stuff. Only suffered it against my better judgment because Cadds I and II were on.

That daftie Slaney going on and on and on about various folk “having a beef with him” like a 15 year old experiencing testosterone for the first time. If it wasn’t SDG it was “the big goalie coach” or various others at other clubs. They’re both Tims - sad AND dim :agree:

Its light hearted Scottish football patter. Its one off the better podcasts on Scottish football

[HoboHarry]

:agree: There were times during the 10 minutes i watched that i questioned if they were speaking English?
Fits at min?

[Vault Boy]

Wow.

[Unseen work]

Another brilliant performance

Clearance off the line when he could hardly walk was brilliant

Massive shout to iredale and O’Hora today too. Whole back 3 were fantastic

[Cooshed Kid]

Ekpiteta did very well too. I thought the organisation might break down a little when Rocky limped off but it held firm, which was a great sign in the event that Rocky is out for a while. But that Rocky, what a GIANT!

[hibees 7062]

Warrior . Get him signed up ffs

[The Spaceman]

New contract. Now.

[Northernhibee]

Looks like Lee Johnson was right about the thousand hours of coaching - he's become an absolutely immense player.

[MacGruber]

We absolutely have to get Rocky on a new contract as soon as possible. Just brilliant from the big fella, along with all the other defenders.

[silverhibee]

New contract. Now.

He will move in the summer.

[Trinity Hibee]

Gray has done wonders with Rocky. Must have just told him to do the basics and not worry about playing about with the ball. Does the basics well and has had some turnaround

[silverhibee]

Any updates on his injury yet.

[Donegal Hibby]

New contract. Now.

🙏

[He's here!]

New contract. Now.

A priority.

[Chorley Hibee]

An absolute warrior.

Not many others you'd want in the trenches beside you.

Symptomatic of the effort and endeavour they're all showing right now.

[richard_pitts]

:agree: There were times during the 10 minutes i watched that i questioned if they were speaking English?

There were press conferences I covered when i was left wondering the same about some of ours and the opposing players to be fair "eeeeeeh, I got the ball and I whacked it wan an' it went in ken like, an I'm like yaaaay"

[GreenCastle]

Must stay - absolutely love this guy - what a player he’s been recently

[Ribs1875]

Is he playing for a move away or is he playing to stay? Either way is giving the effort and putting his body on the line for a guy who is out of contract. Not often you see dudes playing like he has when coming into their last 6 months.

Surely he is at the top of the list to keep.

[Bridge hibs]

Is he playing for a move away or is he playing to stay? Either way is giving the effort and putting his body on the line for a guy who is out of contract. Not often you see dudes playing like he has when coming into their last 6 months.

Surely he is at the top of the list to keep.He has found his form and confidence, dont think theres much else in it

[A Hi-Bee]

The big man was immense once more and we need to keep players like Rocky if we are to reach the levels that Hibs need to aspire.

[makaveli1875]

That block off the line he did was massive . Won us the game

[Centre Hawf]

I love you Rocky

[Since452]

He will move in the summer.

Don't ruin my evening

[Steve20]

He was absolutely superb today. Just like he was great last week. As others say, his block off the line won us the game today.

Yes he has the odd mistake in him, but he's absolutely brilliant.

[FastEddieFelson]

Limping back to make a goal like clearance before getting booked for going absolutely berserk at the referee. Legend.

[hibee_girl]

I didn’t realise just how badly he was limping running back to make his goal line clearance.

Just makes it all the better. He’s a warrior.

[cubehindthegoal]

I didn’t realise just how badly he was limping running back to make his goal line clearance.

Just makes it all the better. He’s a warrior.

Totally rocks it. We will miss him big style when he goes. Might teach some of us patience in the future as fans. Me included, most included probably.

[Broken Gnome]

I'd be worried he's missing the derby if he was limping that badly.

[Hibee Mac]

Just watched back his goal line clearance. Look at him powering back while injured, what an absolute machine, outstanding clearance too. He 'gets Hibs' as we like to say.

What a guy, love him, really hope he stays with us, he's kicked on massively this season.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

[FastEddieFelson]

I'd be worried he's missing the derby if he was limping that badly.

Yup. Good thing Marv is fit to play.

[Chorley Hibee]

Just watched back his goal line clearance. Look at him powering back while injured, what an absolute machine, outstanding clearance too. He 'gets Hibs' as we like to say.

What a guy, love him, really hope he stays with us, he's kicked on massively this season.

Sent from my Pixel 7 using Tapatalk

That was inspirational stuff.

His commitment to the cause is second to none.

[7Hero]

Limping back to make a goal like clearance before getting booked for going absolutely berserk at the referee. Legend.

Watching the highlights I hadn't noticed he was limping to get back, we could all see he was injured after it, but seriously what an effort.

[Nicho87]

Was thinking if he wanted to move on so be it

But his performances have been remarkable recently

Would happily give him a new contract - deserved it now

[greenlex]

I'd be worried he's missing the derby if he was limping that badly.
He will be fine. He’s a warrior. He’s not missing a derby.

[silverhibee]

He will be fine. He’s a warrior. He’s not missing a derby.

:agree:

Will be well strapped up and ready to go.

[JohnM1875]

Warrior.

[Gatecrasher]

I'd really love it if we could get him on a 3 or 4 year deal. It's feeling a long shot the longer he goes without signing.

[SHODAN]

Can you imagine if his header had gone in, the ****ing roof would have blown off

[JimBHibees]

Thought he was very shaky first half two or three really poor clearances including the goal. Seemed nervous on the ball and was obsessed playing out right

[Hiber-nation]

He didn't look 100% fit to me but he could still have had the cigars out in the last 20 mins.

Triantis was having a right go at him in the first half. Good to see, they got their act together in the 2nd half.

[JohnM1875]

Can you imagine if his header had gone in, the ****ing roof would have blown off

🎵 Ohhh, Rocky Bushiri! 🎵

[BroxburnHibee]

Thought he was very shaky first half two or three rally poor clearances including the goal. Seemed nervous on the ball and was obsessed playing out right

The whole team seemed weirdly nervous bizarrely. Glad they sorted it at half time

[andrew_dundee]

A new deal for Rocky please, he's earned it. Sure he makes mistakes, but so does every single footballer. He's been a huge part of our revival and this historic run.

[hibsbollah]

Thought he was very shaky first half two or three really poor clearances including the goal. Seemed nervous on the ball and was obsessed playing out right

Something tells me he wasnt quite right from the strain last week. A few of the team need a rest, id be tempted to bring in the likes of Newell, Obita, Youan, Marv who were 1st choice until recently. Maybe for the killie game.

[BILLYHIBS]

SDG confirmed in today’s prematch Press Conference that talks about Rocky’s future at the Club are still ongoing despite the player himself saying he has had no contract offer yet

He was also delighted that Rocky made his international debut for DR Congo during the international break and that all Hibs players who were on international duty have returned safe and well

BBC News

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/hibernian

[Exuberance1875]

Hope he stays, we’d struggle to get much better than him and he’s clearly a positive influence on those around him

[BILLYHIBS]

Hope he stays, we’d struggle to get much better than him and he’s clearly a positive influence on those around him

Tin hat on but needs to work on his understanding with Smith imo

[Donegal Hibby]

I’d really love it if Rocky were to sign a new contract , very likeable player who’s an absolute warrior…

https://youtu.be/gmfb0ZijV28?si=iJsjhT1PiIYSFQIf

[Cooshed Kid]

Not knocking JN at all but, ideally, Rocky signs a new contract and should be our skipper. He really is the beating heart of the team on the field and off it he's a splendidly articulate young man. I think he's made for captaincy. As a fan for 60 years, for me he's one of the most significant players I have had the pleasure to see at the club - someone who really makes a difference - and would be a brilliant ambassador for the team. I can only hope the club has sufficient means to persuade him to stay.

Like many others, I had my doubts when we signed Rocky and was not a fan but he has grown massively under SDG and would be my first name on the team sheet every week. As a player who clearly always gives his all, I just love him. We are so lucky to have him now, whatever the future holds.

[AmericanKev]

Could be another Colin Murdoch (showing my age :greengrin)

[Saint Hibee]

Not knocking JN at all but, ideally, Rocky signs a new contract and should be our skipper. He really is the beating heart of the team on the field and off it he's a splendidly articulate young man. I think he's made for captaincy. As a fan for 60 years, for me he's one of the most significant players I have had the pleasure to see at the club - someone who really makes a difference - and would be a brilliant ambassador for the team. I can only hope the club has sufficient means to persuade him to stay.

Like many others, I had my doubts when we signed Rocky and was not a fan but he has grown massively under SDG and would be my first name on the team sheet every week. As a player who clearly always gives his all, I just love him. We are so lucky to have him now, whatever the future holds.

Agree with all of this.

[PiemanP]

Not knocking JN at all but, ideally, Rocky signs a new contract and should be our skipper. He really is the beating heart of the team on the field and off it he's a splendidly articulate young man. I think he's made for captaincy. As a fan for 60 years, for me he's one of the most significant players I have had the pleasure to see at the club - someone who really makes a difference - and would be a brilliant ambassador for the team. I can only hope the club has sufficient means to persuade him to stay.

Like many others, I had my doubts when we signed Rocky and was not a fan but he has grown massively under SDG and would be my first name on the team sheet every week. As a player who clearly always gives his all, I just love him. We are so lucky to have him now, whatever the future holds.

I’d rather we left Rocky to focus on the football. As much as he’s improved he’s still error prone. Joe Newell is the rightful captain of the team and that shouldn’t change even if his minutes on the pitch are under threat.

[jakedance]

He’s got better and better and seems like a great guy. I’m always drawn to players who look like they love to play and Rocky just seems to have the attitude we want around our team. Get him signed up.

[Jones28]

If he continues this upward trajectory we will struggle to keep him.

Well worth offering him massively improved terms for a couple of years and he will have his pick of teams when he moves on - hopefully for good money.

[hibsbollah]

Not knocking JN at all but, ideally, Rocky signs a new contract and should be our skipper. He really is the beating heart of the team on the field and off it he's a splendidly articulate young man. I think he's made for captaincy. As a fan for 60 years, for me he's one of the most significant players I have had the pleasure to see at the club - someone who really makes a difference - and would be a brilliant ambassador for the team. I can only hope the club has sufficient means to persuade him to stay.

Like many others, I had my doubts when we signed Rocky and was not a fan but he has grown massively under SDG and would be my first name on the team sheet every week. As a player who clearly always gives his all, I just love him. We are so lucky to have him now, whatever the future holds.

Agree. As ive said before hes in my top five favourite Hibs players ever now. Not necessarily the most talented, just in terms of relatability and wanting him to succeed with and for us.

[JohnM1875]

I’d rather we left Rocky to focus on the football. As much as he’s improved he’s still error prone. Joe Newell is the rightful captain of the team and that shouldn’t change even if his minutes on the pitch are under threat.

Spot on about Newell. I've listened to plenty podcasts involving the current team and Newell is always spoken about extremely highly. Even from a seasoned pro like Gayle.

Newell seems like a phenomenal captain and one all the players trust and respect.

Really hope Rocky stays though, great player.

[eastmainsmsh]

Anyone heard that Rotherham interested in JN

[Donegal Hibby]

Not knocking JN at all but, ideally, Rocky signs a new contract and should be our skipper. He really is the beating heart of the team on the field and off it he's a splendidly articulate young man. I think he's made for captaincy. As a fan for 60 years, for me he's one of the most significant players I have had the pleasure to see at the club - someone who really makes a difference - and would be a brilliant ambassador for the team. I can only hope the club has sufficient means to persuade him to stay.

Like many others, I had my doubts when we signed Rocky and was not a fan but he has grown massively under SDG and would be my first name on the team sheet every week. As a player who clearly always gives his all, I just love him. We are so lucky to have him now, whatever the future holds.

Think Rocky would make an excellent captain too … Hopefully he stays 🤞

[JohnM1875]

Anyone heard that Rotherham interested in JN

Honestly can't see Newell leaving us for anyone other than Birmingham, and that's not going to happen.

I know he played for Rotherham, but he’s Hibs through and through now.

[AmericanKev]

If he continues this upward trajectory we will struggle to keep him.

Well worth offering him massively improved terms for a couple of years and he will have his pick of teams when he moves on - hopefully for good money.

pump the brakes lad, let's not get ahead of ourselves. It's a steep curve to getting better and most players are unlikely to improve so much that they become too big for this division.

He's got better because he's cut out mistakes, not because he's suddenly became amazing.

[Dashing Bob S]

Think Rocky would make an excellent captain too … Hopefully he stays 🤞

Worth so much to this team. Provides the guts and personality every decent team needs. An inspirational leader.

[Lago]

I just have the feeling he'll leave Hibs in the summer.

[Dashing Bob S]

Not knocking JN at all but, ideally, Rocky signs a new contract and should be our skipper. He really is the beating heart of the team on the field and off it he's a splendidly articulate young man. I think he's made for captaincy. As a fan for 60 years, for me he's one of the most significant players I have had the pleasure to see at the club - someone who really makes a difference - and would be a brilliant ambassador for the team. I can only hope the club has sufficient means to persuade him to stay.

Like many others, I had my doubts when we signed Rocky and was not a fan but he has grown massively under SDG and would be my first name on the team sheet every week. As a player who clearly always gives his all, I just love him. We are so lucky to have him now, whatever the future holds.

This this this

[jeffers]

I can only repeat what I posted previously but when I asked MM at the AGM he gave me the impression he did not expect Rocky to sign a new deal.

[Jones28]

pump the brakes lad, let's not get ahead of ourselves. It's a steep curve to getting better and most players are unlikely to improve so much that they become too big for this division.

He's got better because he's cut out mistakes, not because he's suddenly became amazing.

No I disagree. Yes he’s cut out the mistakes but I think he’s matured massively as a player.

[BILLYHIBS]

Keep saying it he has improved season on season listens and learns

Was gash season 1 :greengrin

Good luck to the big fella whatever he decides



:flag:

[silverhibee]

I just have the feeling he'll leave Hibs in the summer.

Fully agree, will move on in the summer to the English Championship or abroad.

[Glory Lurker]

Love him. Two rampages, one feeding the penalty (class celebration with Iredale 🤣). A man mountain to boot. Will really miss him if he goes.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

Excellent today 👍💚

[Paul1642]

Excellent today 👍💚

Excellent defensively as always and a few energetic attacks.

[Pretty Boy]

Noticed at the end of the game today he noticed and pointed out a young lad with the DR Congo flag. Hibs security guy went over and had a wee chat with the guy.

All looked a nice we exchange but just wondered what the outcome was? Hopefully the guy got a picture or something with the big man, certainly looked like Rocky wanted to acknowledge him in some way.

[Hibbyradge]

I think he'll sign a new contract if we qualify for Europe.

[Paul1642]

I think he'll sign a new contract if we qualify for Europe.

We are very likely to qualify for European football in some capacity. It’s the guaranteed group stages that will be a deal maker.

[Hibs Go Bragh]

I’m too far back to see what was going on but during a break in play it looked like Rocky was blowing kisses to someone in the east then everyone started singing his name. The smile on face tells me he loves it here.

Anyone that thinks we can find someone else who is better, bigger, faster and stronger than Rocky is kidding themselves.

I love the guy and I’d be delighted to see him signed up for another 4 years.

[Golden Bear]

He's worth his weight in gold to the team that's for sure.

ROCKY must stay!

[Wilson]

He's worth his weight in gold to the team that's for sure.

ROCKY must stay!

Dunno. How heavy is he?

[JohnM1875]

He's just so ****ing good man. So good.

He will undoubtedly be able to move to a team for a higher wage this summer and that's credit to him, not sure he'll be able to move to a team who's fans are so behind him as we are.

Desperate for him to stay.

[SHODAN]

We won a penalty because he went **** it and decided to run up the park in injury time with the game won. Love the guy.

[WeAreHibs]

I had a couple of numbnuts behind me ripping Rocky throughout the whole first half. To be fair they were also saying Kuhkaroochy so I think that sums them up.

Love Rocky!💚

[JohnM1875]

I had a couple of numbnuts behind me ripping Rocky throughout the whole first half. To be fair they were also saying Kuhkaroochy so I think that sums them up.

Love Rocky!��

Same, seems a small few will never move on and always think he's a liability. Which couldn't be further from the truth, he's our best defender.

[Since452]

I had a couple of numbnuts behind me ripping Rocky throughout the whole first half. To be fair they were also saying Kuhkaroochy so I think that sums them up.

Love Rocky!💚

Strange

[Smartie]

Another excellent performance today.

He’s matured into an excellent player imo.

Can’t see him being here next season though because re-signing him has entered no brainer territory and if he was interested in staying then he’d have extended before now.

[Allant1981]

Another excellent performance today.

He’s matured into an excellent player imo.

Can’t see him being here next season though because re-signing him has entered no brainer territory and if he was interested in staying then he’d have extended before now.

going by his press conference yesterday the club haven't offered him a new contract

[H18 SFR]

going by his press conference yesterday the club haven't offered him a new contract

I took from him saying that they’ve been in discussion maybe his demands are way above what we can offer?

[B.H.F.C]

I took from him saying that they’ve been in discussion maybe his demands are way above what we can offer?

He had one of the biggest clubs in Africa wanting to sign him in January, who would have paid him a lot more than we could. If he still has the likes of them interested then he’ll be away.

[Gloucester Hibs]

A shame if he leaves as he really seems to get the club in a way you don’t see often enough with players with no prior connection to Hibs, think Sproule etc.

If he does go I don’t think Hibs can really be blamed as his performance levels have only really gone to the next level in the final 6-7 months of his contract.

[Since90+2]

He had one of the biggest clubs in Africa wanting to sign him in January, who would have paid him a lot more than we could. If he still has the likes of them interested then he’ll be away.

What club was that?

[HibeeMackenzie]

I love him

[Unseen work]

I had a laugh at Grays response to when he was asked about Rocky’s contract

Think they said Rocky doesn’t know what’s happening and SDG smirked and said “he doesn’t seem to know?!”

Makes me think there’s talks and we want to keep him but probably wage demands being the sticking point

I think Rocky certainly seems keen to stay but again it will probably come down to money as he’ll undoubtedly earn more elsewhere

What is good for us is he’s got international recognition here, no certainty that continues if he goes elsewhere

[Donegal Hibby]

Strange

Always going to get a few fans like that who have a dislike for certain players like Rocky or Campbell , even when they are playing well they don’t want to admit it but keep on criticising for some reason :dunno:..

Not a Levitt fan myself but thought he’s looked good in our last two games which I don’t mind saying.

[B.H.F.C]

What club was that?

Zamalek. Was actually in February when their window was still open.

[andrew_dundee]

I hope we can keep Rocky. The lack of a deal may be because he's holding out to the last minute to maximise his money.

If we finish the season in 3rd it would likely mean a better wage increase for anyone who is holding out on a new contract or would at least put them in a better negotiating position.

[PHeffernan]

I hope we can keep Rocky. The lack of a deal may be because he's holding out to the last minute to maximise his money.

If we finish the season in 3rd it would likely mean a better wage increase for anyone who is holding out on a new contract or would at least put them in a better negotiating position.

It might be all parties are holding out to see if we finish 3rd.
If we achieve that the club will know it has a load of money coming their way and the OOC players will know that to.
Bushiri is the only OOC player that Hibs don't hold the cards with.

[Jones28]

Please stay big man, I’d actually be gutted if he left. Last time I cried over a Hibs transfer was Gary O’Connor leaving - the first time - but this could be the second.

[supermcginn]

Think he'll probably be away but good luck to him but life goes on.

[tamig]

Thought we saw both sides to Rocky today. A true rock at times but a couple of ropey moments too. I still hope he stays next season.

[Carheenlea]

Love him. Two rampages, one feeding the penalty (class celebration with Iredale 🤣). A man mountain to boot. Will really miss him if he goes.

I've never seen a player get rugby tackled in the name of a penalty winning situation.

I'm not really sure what the pair of them were up to but they were having a great old laugh about it anyway!

[YETI1875]

I've never seen a player get rugby tackled in the name of a penalty winning situation.

I'm not really sure what the pair of them were up too but they were having a great old laugh about it anyway!
The run dive and laughing leading to the penalty was brilliant
He’s a big part of the feel good factor at hibs
He’s got a mistake in him but he gets hibs
That’s all that matters

[Smartie]

Rocky going for a dribble, driving forward with the ball at his feet is a glorious sight to behold.

It’s one of my favourite things about this team and it’s actually a pretty potent weapon.

[Golden Bear]

"There's a mistake in him" - apparently. Name me a player where this
doesn't apply ?

[Iain G]

"There's a mistake in him" - apparently. Name me a player where this
doesn't apply ?

"There is a miserable disruptive yam phanny in him" name the ginge

[Smartie]

"There's a mistake in him" - apparently. Name me a player where this
doesn't apply ?

Jack Iredale?

Rarely sets a foot wrong.

[Viva_Palmeiras]

"There's a mistake in him" - apparently. Name me a player where this
doesn't apply ?

Let he who is without flaw cast a stone at the Sportsound pundits :)

[EdinMike]

Jack Iredale?

Rarely sets a foot wrong.

I think I saw 2 or maybe 3 wayward passes today, however I’ll blame the wind and not Jack !

[hibsbollah]

Jack Iredale?

Rarely sets a foot wrong.

I read on here he was at fault for the Killie equaliser. Even if true, it proves the point that having a mistake in you is literally applicable to every human being on planet earth. Even Leeann Crichton.

[Dashing Bob S]

Rocky's more than a central defender. We need big personalities and leaders in the team.

Whether he stays or goes I hope we are well and truly done with 'competent, tidy' types who wouldn't say boo to a goose and can't galvanise team mates and supporters, and in any case make just as many errors.

[hibsbollah]

Rocky's more than a central defender. We need big personalities and leaders in the team.

Whether he stays or goes I hope we are well and truly done with 'competent, tidy' types who wouldn't say boo to a goose and can't galvanise team mates and supporters, and in any case make just as many errors.

Leave Chris Hogg out of this

[Mcbizz1998]

Pretty surprised at the suggestion he won’t be staying. He’s turned into a real asset for us but before that the guy was a complete liability at times. Massive credit for his recent form but bigger clubs will be looking at him and thinking, can he keep it up or will he regress to the error prone defender he’s been most of his time at Hibs?

I’m not convinced he’s getting better offers than Hibs. Especially if we are playing group stage European football.

[BILLYHIBS]

Playing with confidence now

The crowd were baying for him to take the penalty

A real cult figure

Exactly the type of character we need to bond the fans to the team and you can see the players are working hard for each other as a team a world of difference

[JimBHibees]

Zamalek. Was actually in February when their window was still open.

That Egyptian?

[Hibees1973]

I've heard a rumour he has been offered a pre contract from Gent in Belgium.

[GloryGlory]

I've heard a rumour he has been offered a pre contract from Gent in Belgium.

According to Rocky yesterday "my future is I'm going home for my dinner". :greengrin

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/scotland (scroll down to must-see video).

[cabbageandribs1875]

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/486616479_1070585215107440_6689502034577481319_n.j pg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=bgBaUwpvBpQQ7kNvgGSsTl3&_nc_oc=Adn-Cr4nUifOldHVJ7CBOHMdRCnn-KG6yR3cwjyKlyqeTSwI51QgqfFmwO8Tcxi0I4M&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=qWwPbCtMzFFuh9WsgvhStw&oh=00_AYFqDy0C5nftpOqjmFvz6qZ5tyETkUGkt4vdzklS_o05 tQ&oe=67EF68C7

[erin go bragh]

I've heard a rumour he has been offered a pre contract from Gent in Belgium.

You would think if he was signing a deal with us it would have been done by now.
Personally think he will be offski and Gent are a decent Belgium side.
Would love him to stay btw.

[ancient hibee]

Everybody will be hanging back I think as terms available may well depend on whether we finish 3rd or not and more money being on offer.

[Viva_Palmeiras]

According to Rocky yesterday "my future is I'm going home for my dinner". :greengrin

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/scotland (scroll down to must-see video).

From the playback I understood that quote was from McJambo - Rocky simply agreed “me too”
Rocky speaks openly and honestly - prob why they try to reel him in- and remarkably well handled for someone whose first language is not English. To be awkward and neuter the fanny insist on an interpreter with McJambo.

[PHeffernan]

You would think if he was signing a deal with us it would have been done by now.
Personally think he will be offski and Gent are a decent Belgium side.
Would love him to stay btw.

Gent have far less supporters than Hibs.
The problem is they probably have more money.

Brugge are the best supported club in Belgium this season with average home attendances of only 22,750
Average attendances in the SPL are 50% higher than in the Belgian top tier despite a population half the size of Belgium.

[PHeffernan]

Everybody will be hanging back I think as terms available may well depend on whether we finish 3rd or not and more money being on offer.

That's my reading of it.
Finish 3rd and everyone's happy. The club owners, the out of contract players and their agents.

[JohnM1875]

Everybody will be hanging back I think as terms available may well depend on whether we finish 3rd or not and more money being on offer.

If Celtic win the cup

[chippy]

If Celtic win the cup

Is it still the case that the cup winners get priority over 3rd in the league for euro spots ? I thought that had been reversed

[JimBHibees]

Is it still the case that the cup winners get priority over 3rd in the league for euro spots ? I thought that had been reversed

Yes they do which imo isn’t right but rules are rules

[Paul1642]

Yes they do which imo isn’t right but rules are rules

It’s definitely fair IMO. A Scottish cup win is a much bigger deal than coming 3rd place in the league, even if it does take less wins to achieve.

Doing away with runner up getting the spot was the right call though.

[JimBHibees]

It’s definitely fair IMO. A Scottish cup win is a much bigger deal than coming 3rd place in the league, even if it does take less wins to achieve.

Doing away with runner up getting the spot was the right call though.

My opinion a team stronger over the whole season deserve it more than one on form potentially over 5 games. Appreciate other views exist

[Ribs1875]

Considering our owners wiped the annual losses from their personal savings, I doubt they are waiting to see where we end the season before offering contracts. Bushiri and Boyle have been key players during this run, they proven themselves worthy of new contracts.

The more time passes the harder it will be to keep hold, particularly Bushiri.

[RIP]

This is a results-driven business. For example, Squareheid has been a top goalscorer for a team who have finished third twice in the last 3 seasons. He knocked back contract offers from the Yams.

However he's hardly been in that same form this season with the result that they sit three places away from third.

If they finish fifth or lower, would Hearts be justified in offering him poorer terms for renewal?

We have only just qualified Top Six. Malky would be crazy to have renewed any outfield players at this stage of the year.

Let's see where we finish first.

[matty_f]

Wrote a wee bit about Rocky for the BBC:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/hibernian

[BILLYHIBS]

Good to see Miller and Hoilett making the team of the week

[hibsbollah]

Wrote a wee bit about Rocky for the BBC:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/hibernian

Agree with every word. Great work Matty.

[CentreLine]

According to Rocky yesterday "my future is I'm going home for my dinner". :greengrin

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/scotland (scroll down to must-see video).

That was actually Brian McGlaughlan said that when Rocky said who can predict the future. Bearing in mind the shape of BM, Rocky’s face was a picture of “no surprise there”.

[Donegal Hibby]

I knew Rocky’s passing accuracy would be good but was surprised it was as high as 94.1% .

The “ he’s got a mistake in him “ I thought he did have in him as he reminds me of Efe Ambrose to a degree in he’s a proper footballing centre have who likes to bomb forward like he did just before Bowie got the penalty ..

I think since Gray became manager he’s looked less likely to take a risk and more likely to just put the ball in row Z now .

I suppose Gray and his staff deserve enormous credit as to what we are now seeing in different players like Rocky having improved significantly.

[superfurryhibby]

Wrote a wee bit about Rocky for the BBC:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/hibernian

Good piece on Rocky, pretty much agree with it all.

[ancient hibee]

Does the 94% include row z passes.?

[Hibbyradge]

"He's got a mistake in him" is the new "Bomb scare".

[Hibbyradge]

Does the 94% include row z passes.?

Obviously yes.

[Cooshed Kid]

Wrote a wee bit about Rocky for the BBC:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/hibernian

Nice article, Matty. I'm sure Rocky is feeling the love but a footballer's unpredictable career doesn't permit him to be swayed entirely by sentiment at age 25. We need to present him with a contract which he will accept enthusiastically before anyone else can grab him. 🤞

[Libby Hibby]

I think Rocky is going to leave. It’s all too quiet. The club will also look at our two summer signing sitting on the bench and thinking we have ample replacements if he does go.

[Libby Hibby]

Wrote a wee bit about Rocky for the BBC:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/teams/hibernian

Well written article Matty.

[GloryGlory]

Nice article, Matty. I'm sure Rocky is feeling the love but a footballer's unpredictable career doesn't permit him to be swayed entirely by sentiment at age 25. We need to present him with a contract which he will accept enthusiastically before anyone else can grab him. 🤞

Good that Matty called out the lazy punditry that thoughtlessly parrots "he's got a mistake in him" at every opportunity.

[Bostonhibby]

Good that Matty called out the lazy punditry that thoughtlessly parrots "he's got a mistake in him" at every opportunity.Really enjoyed Matty's take on things, inspired me to take a wee look at the "mistakes" that Hearts seem to have in them, and find some have resulted in no less than 4 own goals and the boy McCart has a couple on one game. Looking forward to this mistake ridden defender and top of the own goal chart team being put in the spotlight.........

Sent from my SM-A750FN using Tapatalk

[RIP]

Marvin Ekpetita and Warren O'Hora were both signed last summer and neither can remove Rocky from that role at the heart of our defence.

Bushiri is the most dominant central defender we've had since Daz or big Rob Jones. Players like Rocky are very difficult to replace so FFS Malky, please don't let brinkmanship let him slip through our fingers.

[Phil MaGlass]

Shame he can leave for free at end of season. Think hes worth a couple of million now, will be difficult to keep hold of.

[Ribs1875]

I think it's an 80% chance he will leave. He would be a loss, but he isn't in the irreplaceable category of a Scott Brown or John McGinn. I see Bushiri as what Paul Hanlon was to us, a good first team player.

Most of the teams he has been linked to there isn't a certainty to walk into their squads. Financially however we can't complete. Let's say his wages were roughly between £2-3k per week with us. Realistically we could offer him £4-5k per week. The problem is as soon as a mid-championship team (or equivalent) comes in, any offer we make is blown out the park. If one is being offered more money to do the same job, regardless if they play or not they are going to take the highest offer.

[Lago]

I think it's an 80% chance he will leave. He would be a loss, but he isn't in the irreplaceable category of a Scott Brown or John McGinn. I see Bushiri as what Paul Hanlon was to us, a good first team player.

Most of the teams he has been linked to there isn't a certainty to walk into their squads. Financially however we can't complete. Let's say his wages were roughly between £2-3k per week with us. Realistically we could offer him £4-5k per week. The problem is as soon as a mid-championship team (or equivalent) comes in, any offer we make is blown out the park. If one is being offered more money to do the same job, regardless if they play or not they are going to take the highest offer.
This 👍

[Bostonhibby]

I think it's an 80% chance he will leave. He would be a loss, but he isn't in the irreplaceable category of a Scott Brown or John McGinn. I see Bushiri as what Paul Hanlon was to us, a good first team player.

Most of the teams he has been linked to there isn't a certainty to walk into their squads. Financially however we can't complete. Let's say his wages were roughly between £2-3k per week with us. Realistically we could offer him £4-5k per week. The problem is as soon as a mid-championship team (or equivalent) comes in, any offer we make is blown out the park. If one is being offered more money to do the same job, regardless if they play or not they are going to take the highest offer.A lot of sense in this unfortunately. I'd like him to stay, but if he goes just watch the BBC Heartsound gang tell us how much it weakens us to lose such a great defender....

Sent from my SM-A750FN using Tapatalk

[hibsbollah]

Its astonishing how this discussion on Rocky has flipped. November time there were posts literally people saying they 'hated' him, how they would drive him anywhere, etc.

[Cooshed Kid]

I think it's an 80% chance he will leave. He would be a loss, but he isn't in the irreplaceable category of a Scott Brown or John McGinn. I see Bushiri as what Paul Hanlon was to us, a good first team player.

Most of the teams he has been linked to there isn't a certainty to walk into their squads. Financially however we can't complete. Let's say his wages were roughly between £2-3k per week with us. Realistically we could offer him £4-5k per week. The problem is as soon as a mid-championship team (or equivalent) comes in, any offer we make is blown out the park. If one is being offered more money to do the same job, regardless if they play or not they are going to take the highest offer.

I won't let my optimism be suffocated by maths. If the club wants to keep Rocky - which I am sure it does - and if we make him an offer he considers acceptable, then he may well stay. Much depends on where we finish and whether Celtic win the Cup and how much income we can expect next season in consequence. I expect Rocky is aware of that. Our gentle giant is no fool and would not wish to be a highly-paid benchwarmer given his aspirations to be an international player. I just hope he gives us time.

[CapitalGreen]

Its astonishing how this discussion on Rocky has flipped. November time there were posts literally people saying they 'hated' him, how they would drive him anywhere, etc.

A search on the thread for the terms “hate” and “drive” returns only your post.

[Centre Hawf]

I think the Rocky Bushiri situation should probably serve as a reminder on how we should treat players while they're at the club. He's been battered by everyone in this country from media and opposition to his own fans since arriving here. I myself have had periods where I've thought it would be best to move on from him so I'm not exactly clear of blame. But it's probably quite a funny moment for Rocky to spend the best part of 3 years being told he's gash by folk in the stands to now being begged to stay.

I would love him to stay currently but if I was him and the offers were on the table to try my hand elsewhere I would take it knowing fine well if I stay here and things turn again I could find myself being public enemy number 1 very quickly again.

[Jock O]

I think the Rocky Bushiri situation should probably serve as a reminder on how we should treat players while they're at the club. He's been battered by everyone in this country from media and opposition to his own fans since arriving here. I myself have had periods where I've thought it would be best to move on from him so I'm not exactly clear of blame. But it's probably quite a funny moment for Rocky to spend the best part of 3 years being told he's gash by folk in the stands to now being begged to stay.

I would love him to stay currently but if I was him and the offers were on the table to try my hand elsewhere I would take it knowing fine well if I stay here and things turn again I could find myself being public enemy number 1 very quickly again.

I totally agree on this, if nothing else this year will have made him think about how quick things can change, either way, and how fickle and short a career football is. So it makes sense for him to take anything that looks like a good short to medium term fit for him going forward.

I have said it before but I will be astounded if we get an improvement on Rocky without busting our budget for that position, so it will be an interesting test to see what we think we should/can offer.

[superfurryhibby]

A search on the thread for the terms “hate” and “drive” returns only your post.

Worth noting that the thread was started in Feb 25, I think you'll find plenty dissenting voices on the merits of Rocky on ones from last year.

[hibsbollah]

A search on the thread for the terms “hate” and “drive” returns only your post.

there are multiple Rocky threads. Could have been 'Rock on Rocky' or one previous. But yes, one poster did say they actually hated him.

[Donegal Hibby]

there are multiple Rocky threads. Could have been 'Rock on Rocky' or one previous. But yes, one poster did say they actually hated him.

I actually remember when he was away on international duty there was a post hoping his country went all the way in the tournament so he didn’t have to come back early! .

[Ribs1875]

I think the Rocky Bushiri situation should probably serve as a reminder on how we should treat players while they're at the club. He's been battered by everyone in this country from media and opposition to his own fans since arriving here. I myself have had periods where I've thought it would be best to move on from him so I'm not exactly clear of blame. But it's probably quite a funny moment for Rocky to spend the best part of 3 years being told he's gash by folk in the stands to now being begged to stay.

I would love him to stay currently but if I was him and the offers were on the table to try my hand elsewhere I would take it knowing fine well if I stay here and things turn again I could find myself being public enemy number 1 very quickly again.

Agree with all that. I do remember when LJ made the "wouldn't sell for 10 mil" he was in good form during that time up until that injury. Since December he has been in the best form of his career.

Like you say, a couple of bad performances then it's back to being slated. Scottish football is never going to change and that’s why it’s dead on its knees. It's pretty much a stepping stone for these type of guys. It won't be as big as the likes of an Italy or Germany, but should be able to compete with the likes of Belgium, Greece, Turkey and even the English championship (which doesn't offer the opportunity to play in Europe). Players who have came and gone have mentioned by the time you play the same team on the 4th occasion, you know their players, system and tactics so it makes for more stale games.

[B.H.F.C]

I think the Rocky Bushiri situation should probably serve as a reminder on how we should treat players while they're at the club. He's been battered by everyone in this country from media and opposition to his own fans since arriving here. I myself have had periods where I've thought it would be best to move on from him so I'm not exactly clear of blame. But it's probably quite a funny moment for Rocky to spend the best part of 3 years being told he's gash by folk in the stands to now being begged to stay.

I would love him to stay currently but if I was him and the offers were on the table to try my hand elsewhere I would take it knowing fine well if I stay here and things turn again I could find myself being public enemy number 1 very quickly again.

Think, in general, folk just call what they see at the time.

For the bulk of Rocky’s three years at Hibs I thought we’d be well rid of him. His form since he came back in to the team has been a huge improvement and he’s had a great impact on the team. He’s had a few mistakes along the way as well, quickly forgotten about as they didn’t end up costing us the game. But the more positives outweigh that since he came back in.

One thing I would say is that if he moves, it’ll be exactly the same elsewhere. If folk think he’s doing well he’ll be praised and if they don’t he’ll be criticised. I don’t think that’ll be a consideration in whether he goes or not, he seems strong enough to deal with it.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Think, in general, folk just call what they see at the time.

For the bulk of Rocky’s three years at Hibs I thought we’d be well rid of him. His form since he came back in to the team has been a huge improvement and he’s had a great impact on the team. He’s had a few mistakes along the way as well, quickly forgotten about as they didn’t end up costing us the game. But the more positives outweigh that since he came back in.

One thing I would say is that if he moves, it’ll be exactly the same elsewhere. If folk think he’s doing well he’ll be praised and if they don’t he’ll be criticised. I don’t think that’ll be a consideration in whether he goes or not, he seems strong enough to deal with it.

:agree:

Rocky has been here nearly 3 and a half years and other than the last 4 or 5 months has largely been poor. The eye test told us that, but he was always someone who when they came into the team, we became statistically defensively significantly poorer as well.

As you say, people have called it as they see it, much the same as they’re doing now. If we can’t form an opinion on a player after nearly 3 years at the club (which it had been before he came into form recently) then when can we? If Rocky didn’t want to face those criticisms then he had to up his game, which he has.

It’s great that he’s turned it around, but that doesn’t make previous opinions on him wrong. They were perfectly valid at the time and based on a fairly substantial length of time as evidence. Most of that criticism has completely disappeared now, so as you say, it’s clearly people just calling it as they see it.

[Centre Hawf]

Think, in general, folk just call what they see at the time.

For the bulk of Rocky’s three years at Hibs I thought we’d be well rid of him. His form since he came back in to the team has been a huge improvement and he’s had a great impact on the team. He’s had a few mistakes along the way as well, quickly forgotten about as they didn’t end up costing us the game. But the more positives outweigh that since he came back in.

One thing I would say is that if he moves, it’ll be exactly the same elsewhere. If folk think he’s doing well he’ll be praised and if they don’t he’ll be criticised. I don’t think that’ll be a consideration in whether he goes or not, he seems strong enough to deal with it.

You're right. I'm not going to pretend that the entirety of his three years here has been secretly good and we're all idiots for not seeing it. I already said in another thread to Donegal that BBC Brian isn't wrong to mention his mistakes existing because that is unfortunately the tale of his time here, speaking about them as it happens as well isn't a sin against the player either.

I think where we (football fans not just Hibs fans) need to be better is perhaps keeping a lot of the criticism level and measured. There are idiots on social media that will let every side down but I do despair sometimes at some of the public criticisms I see of our players even during this really positive run. There's nothing wrong with preferring to see Bowie over Mykola for example, but do we need to follow it up with a "because Mykola is rotten"?

When it comes to Rocky I'm sure he's had everything under the sun said about him and probably even to him, that will stick with him when it comes to this idea he'll romantically want to stay at the club over twice the wage somewhere else for example. There will be people out there that will have slated him from the stands over the last three years, only to probably call him a turncoat for leaving for nothing in the summer.

[CapitalGreen]

Agree with all that. I do remember when LJ made the "wouldn't sell for 10 mil" he was in good form during that time up until that injury. Since December he has been in the best form of his career.

Like you say, a couple of bad performances then it's back to being slated. Scottish football is never going to change and that’s why it’s dead on its knees. It's pretty much a stepping stone for these type of guys. It won't be as big as the likes of an Italy or Germany, but should be able to compete with the likes of Belgium, Greece, Turkey and even the English championship (which doesn't offer the opportunity to play in Europe). Players who have came and gone have mentioned by the time you play the same team on the 4th occasion, you know their players, system and tactics so it makes for more stale games.

In the 10 games following LJs “£10m” comments we conceded 24 goals. I believe it was the worst 10 game stretch in terms of goals conceded in my 30+ years watching Hibs. Along with his colleagues in defence, Rocky was awful during that period up to his injury, its revisionism to now suggest otherwise

[stokesmessiah]

I won't let my optimism be suffocated by maths. If the club wants to keep Rocky - which I am sure it does - and if we make him an offer he considers acceptable, then he may well stay. Much depends on where we finish and whether Celtic win the Cup and how much income we can expect next season in consequence. I expect Rocky is aware of that. Our gentle giant is no fool and would not wish to be a highly-paid benchwarmer given his aspirations to be an international player. I just hope he gives us time.

Out of interest, if we go into European group stage…how much is that worth?

[JeMeSouviens]

Out of interest, if we go into European group stage…how much is that worth?

Conference League

Qualified to League Phase: €3,170,000
Match won in League Phase: €400,000
Match drawn in League Phase: €133,000
1st–8th in League Phase: €400,000
9th–24th in League Phase: €200,000
Round of 16: €800,000
Quarter-final: €1,300,000
Semi-final: €2,500,000
Runner-up: €4,000,000
Champion: €7,000,000


Europa League

Qualified to group stage: €3,630,000
Match won in group stage: €630,000
Match drawn in group stage: €210,000
1st in group stage: €1,100,000
2nd in group stage: €550,000
Knockout round play-offs: €500,000
Round of 16: €1,200,000
Quarter-final: €1,800,000
Semi-final: €2,800,000
Runner-up: €4,600,000
Champion: €8,600,000

[hibsbollah]

Conference League

Qualified to League Phase: €3,170,000
Match won in League Phase: €400,000
Match drawn in League Phase: €133,000
1st–8th in League Phase: €400,000
9th–24th in League Phase: €200,000
Round of 16: €800,000
Quarter-final: €1,300,000
Semi-final: €2,500,000
Runner-up: €4,000,000
Champion: €7,000,000


Europa League

Qualified to group stage: €3,630,000
Match won in group stage: €630,000
Match drawn in group stage: €210,000
1st in group stage: €1,100,000
2nd in group stage: €550,000
Knockout round play-offs: €500,000
Round of 16: €1,200,000
Quarter-final: €1,800,000
Semi-final: €2,800,000
Runner-up: €4,600,000
Champion: €8,600,000

Which shows that qualifying for the group stages of either of the two competitions is the real golden egg here; there is relatively little between the rewards in the Europa League and the Conference league. A parachute into the conference league group stage is a decent reward.

[Thatdayinmay16]

Conference League

Qualified to League Phase: €3,170,000
Match won in League Phase: €400,000
Match drawn in League Phase: €133,000
1st–8th in League Phase: €400,000
9th–24th in League Phase: €200,000
Round of 16: €800,000
Quarter-final: €1,300,000
Semi-final: €2,500,000
Runner-up: €4,000,000
Champion: €7,000,000


Europa League

Qualified to group stage: €3,630,000
Match won in group stage: €630,000
Match drawn in group stage: €210,000
1st in group stage: €1,100,000
2nd in group stage: €550,000
Knockout round play-offs: €500,000
Round of 16: €1,200,000
Quarter-final: €1,800,000
Semi-final: €2,800,000
Runner-up: €4,600,000
Champion: €8,600,000

The 8.6m euros were due when we win the Europa League should go a long way tbf.