It is very early days, but already the appointment of Paul Heckingbottom as the new Hibernian head coach looks to be a smart one.
The recently appointed boss continued his 100% record in the job with Friday night’s 4-2 win over Dundee. The win has pushed Hibernian right back into the battle for the top six, when a short time ago they looked cut adrift.
Heckingbottom seems to have managed to restore the confidence of players who were flagging under Neil Lennon.
Stevie Mallan, who has been inconsistent this season, shone against Dundee. He capped off a man of the match display with a goal that sealed the three points.
Florian Kamberi, who had a tempestuous relationship with Lennon, seems like a player reborn under Heckingbottom. He has scored in both games that Heckingbottom has been in charge of.
It is far too early to get carried away though. And Heckingbottom will face his first real test when Hibs play Celtic in the Scottish Cup next Saturday. That is not a game Hibs should fear though, judging by the confidence they are currently playing with.
But so far the appointment of the former Leeds boss seems to be paying off so far. If Heckingbottom can get Hibs into the top six, it can be considered a job well done, and he can plan ahead for next season full of confidence.