After storming back into the Hibs starting XI, club captain Paul Hanlon’s mentality has been lauded as an example to everyone at the club. And head coach Nick Montgomery insists that he will always be “fair” to players who seize their opportunity to shine.
In Saturday’s 1-0 away win over Livingston, Hanlon made his third appearance for Montgomery, who hadn’t selected the experienced center-half in his starting XI since a 4-0 loss to Rangers at Ibrox in October. Hanlon was selected ahead of Rocky Bushiri over the weekend and paired Will Fish as the visitors kept a clean sheet.
After the Leaving game, the 33-year-old spoke on the necessity of patience. And he voiced hope that he’d done enough to keep his starting spot, not just for this weekend’s journey to Perth to face St Johnstone, but in the long run.
Montgomery praised Hanlon’s standards, saying, “First and foremost, Paul is just a really nice guy.” He’s a consummate professional. His attitude every day, whether he’s playing or not, is excellent. I want everyone to give their all, regardless of whether they are on the squad, because you never know when you will be called upon.
“There’s no doubt it’s been a little frustrating for Paul.” I just had the impression that Rocky and Will were working nicely together. You do, however, have a squad, just like the front pairing, midfield, or wide players. When new players arrive, they are expected to perform.
“All you can ask as a manager is that the guys on the sidelines want the team to win even when they’re not playing.” They then enter and try everything in their power to keep the clothing.
“I don’t have anything but praise for Paul’s effort. He’s a club captain and a leader who wears his heart on his sleeve.
“In some games, particular players suit different teams you’re playing against. I believe that every manager is the same, with an element of horses for courses on occasion – but largely focused on themselves.
“I try to be fair, and if you perform well, I believe I am always fair in keeping you on the team.” But there are times when someone has been playing exceptionally well, then suffers a suspension or an injury, and you must make the difficult decision of whether to reinstate them or continue with a side that has maybe just won the game. “There is never a truly correct answer until after the game!”
On Saturday, Montgomery will face former Hearts and Scotland manager Craig Levein for the first time in his coaching career. “I know he’s been around a long time, and I know he’s well respected – and I remember playing against his Leicester teams in England,” the former Sheffield United midfielder remarked. I have a lot of respect for him as someone who has been in and out of the game and is now back in it.
“You can see that they’ve improved since the new manager arrived; they’re very organised and disciplined.” I believe he has brought something new since his arrival. That is frequently the case, and it appears that the guys have responded.”
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