The Scottish Sun have reported that Hibs are closing in on the signing of Yeovil right-back Tom James.
The Welshman is on the lookout for a new club after the Glovers’ relegation to the National League. The report claims that Hibs are close to snapping him up.
Could he be Hibs veteran David Gray’s long-term replacement?
James certainly could be
Gray isn’t getting any younger. Right-back is a demanding position in the modern game, and slowly but surely, Gray will not be able to keep up with the demands of the role as time goes on.
That won’t happen in the next couple of seasons at least though, he’s only 31. With his injury problems he faced last season though, reliable cover is needed. James would be more than decent.
He’s naturally a right-back but he found himself on the left side of defence at times last season. He even found himself playing in central midfield. Not only could he cover Gray, but he could cover a variety of positions out on the park.
James even has a scoring touch for his position, netting six times last season in League Two. He’s an all-rounder who’ll give you 7/10 every game with assured defensive performances.
He could be a long-term replacement for Gray. If the current Hibs right-back can show him how to be a solid full-back in this league and almost act like a mentor to him, James could be really successful at Easter Road.
Welsh full-back James would be a decent signing for Hibs. He’d most likely be cover initially, but over time, he could go on to become Hibs’ next right-back mainstay.