Hibernian Supporters’ Unaddressed Concerns: Black Knight Involvement and Youth Development

Readers were invited to share their perspectives on subjects concerning Hibernian that are currently not being widely discussed, whether positive or negative. The following are some of the responses received: Scott noted that only a limited number of fans, primarily through blogs, are discussing increased involvement or a potential takeover by Black Knight, urging for such a development to occur before the club faces relegation. Andy questioned the status of the development squad, pointing out that Hibernian has acquired numerous players ostensibly for this squad, while the youth team performed well in Europe and the first team is significantly underperforming. He asked why the first team players are not facing pressure for their positions, concluding with the query: “Just another dismal failure from Hibs’ recruitment team?” Jason expressed that initial expectations for success and prosperity with the Black Knight consortium’s arrival have not been met, stating that the club appears to be regressing. He suggested that all shareholders and owners should convene to devise a strategy soon to prevent another relegation threat at Easter Road, adding that the club should be able to afford a competent manager. David inquired why the relationship with the Black Knight group is not being discussed, observing that “It has gone very quiet since the interview about getting into Europe and then eventually challenging for the league. Where has the finance and ambition gone and what are the Black Knight group thinking about the current state of affairs?” Grahame commented that the club employs a novice manager with assistants lacking experience, suggesting that the director of football ought to secure an experienced set-piece coach, such as Austin MacPhee, who is currently available after departing Aston Villa and, until recently, the Scottish national team. Ron highlighted a disparity in standards between the first team and the development squad/academy, noting a struggling senior team contrasted with youngsters who appear to be winning consistently. He proposed that youth players should be given an opportunity, recalling that this was historically common at Hibernian, and pondered if their “desire” could be beneficial.