Hearts left-back Aidy White has praised Hibs boss Paul Heckingbottom for giving him support during his injury lay-off.
The winger missed two and half years of action with injury before returning to the pitch for the Jambos earlier this month. He turned a fine display during a 0-0 draw with Ross County.
Hibs boss Heckingbottom was his manager for a period of time at Barnsley. He has piled praise on him for his work during a rough time period for the left-back.
White told Edinburgh Live: “I know the Hearts fans might not like to hear but Hecky was a brilliant manager and he was great with me.
“He let me take the time I needed to take, and I can’t speak highly enough of him.”
White may face Heckingbottom during Hibs v Hearts clash
They may be on opposite sides of the Edinburgh divide, but it’s clear that White has a lot of respect for Heckingbottom.
After 31 months out with injury, whilst it would be unfortunate, many wouldn’t have blamed the full-back for throwing the towel in.
Instead he persevered and made his return to football. After his start against the Staggies, a cameo appearance against Motherwell allowed him to gain more minutes.
Another seven minute appearance followed against Celtic. It’s going to take months for him to get back to full speed, but at least White is able to lace up his boots again.
It would be brilliant for White if he featured in the Edinburgh derby. Playing against his former boss that helped him through the early stages of his injury over two and a half years ago now would make for a special personal moment.
They are enemies on the park, but away from the pitch, White has only good things to say about the Hibs boss.