WHITT A COUP!
Lennon hails return of Whittaker to Hibernian
NEIL LENNON insists Hibs are getting three players for the price of one as the club prepares to unveil new signing Steven Whittaker. The former Scotland and Norwich defender was at training yesterday to meet his prospective new team-mates as he puts the finishing touches to his return to Easter Road.
The formalities of the protracted switch are expected to be formally finalised over the weekend, allowing Whittaker to be announced as a Hibs player early next week — a decade after leaving to join Rangers.
With the deal all but complete, Lennon felt comfortable enough to underline the qualities offered by the experienced 33-year-old — whose signing he reckons will be a ‘coup’ for the capital outfit on their return to the top flight.
‘The Whittaker one is very close and hopefully we’ll announce something early next week,’ confirmed Lennon. ‘It will be a real coup for this club.
‘We’ll be getting three players in one with Steven. He can play in both full-back positions, he is excellent in midfield and has had a stellar career.
‘There is plenty more to come. He looks in great condition and we’ll hope to get it over the line by the weekend.’
Ex-Aberdeen striker Simon Church is set to continue his Easter Road trial as the Wales international, who missed nine months last season with Roda JC due to a hip injury, regains fitness and sharpness.
But Lennon has been impressed by the impact made by the free agent, who hit six goals in 13 matches for the Dons at the tail end of the 2015-16 campaign and represented his country at Euro 2016.
Hibs also continue to be linked with Anthony Stokes as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
‘It’s too early for Simon Church in the sense he’s only been here for a couple of days and I imagine he’ll stay with us next week, unless anything else crops up for him,’ said Lennon. ‘At the minute, he is getting his fitness levels up, training well — but it’s no guarantee.
‘I’m pleased with the business we’ve done so far and hopefully we’ll have more names that really appeal to the fans. It’s just about adding bits of quality here and there. The core of the squad is good and we’re anticipating a good season.’
Meanwhile, Lennon confirmed that Efe Ambrose has returned to training after being declared AWOL at the start of this week. While the player has been privately reprimanded, Lennon has accepted the defender’s explanation for his absence and insists the matter is now closed.
But he will not be in contention to face Montrose when Hibs kick off their Betfred Cup campaign on Saturday.
‘The eagle has landed,’ laughed Lennon. ‘And the hatchet’s been buried — in his head! He was off until Monday and had a personal issue, and there was a slight communication problem. But he’s here, he’s fine and in good health.
‘I’m not going to use him on Saturday because he’s only just back.
‘However, he’ll be ready to play against Ross County next Friday.
‘I’m satisfied with his explanation.’