Ofir Marciano claims that issues away from the pitch have cost him a place in the Hibs starting XI.
The goalkeeper, who was recently out on international duty with Israel, hasn’t played competitive club football since September. His last appearance came in a 3-0 defeat to Kilmarnock.
Whilst Jack Ross’ arrival offers the potential of a clean slate, Marciano has provided a reason as to why he’s been excluded, and it isn’t because of ‘professional’ matters.
He told the Daily Record (page 44, 19/11/19): “The reason I don’t play in Scotland is not on professional grounds. We will have to deal with the situation.
“In my club I am one of the senior players but there are reasons why I haven’t been playing that I will not elaborate on.”
Mystery surrounds recent Marciano exclusion
Marciano was dropped for the Edinburgh Derby in September and hasn’t regained his place since. He did, however, play for his country over the weekend.
He featured as Israel lost 2-1 to Poland before dropping to the bench during a 1-0 defeat to North Macedonia. Andi Herzog’s side could face Scotland in the Euro 2020 play-offs next year.
If he is to make these crucial matches though Marciano has to wrestle the number one spot off Chris Maxwell at Hibs. A new manager should give him the chance to do that.
Marciano’s made over 120 appearances since his arrival at Hibs from Ashdod but he desperately needs minutes to remain Israel’s number one.