Hibs defender Paul Hanlon has opened up on the start to life under new Hibees owner Ron Gordon and his ‘ethos.’
The new owner took in Hibs’ 1-1 League Cup draw with Stirling Albion. Scott Allan scored his first goal for the club but it was canceled out by a stunning David Wilson equaliser. The Hibees won the bonus point after a 5-4 penalty shootout victory.
A tough shift for Hibs in Stirling. (Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images)
After the game, the defender gave his thoughts to the assembled media on the new ownership at Easter Road.
He said: “It’s exciting, there’s no doubt about that. He had a meeting with us during the week just to introduce himself and his ethos and how he likes to work in business.
“It’s an exciting time for the club but it’s not something we can concentrate on too much. We just need to do our job at the weekend as best we can and hopefully he’ll see a few better performances over the coming month and years.”
What Hibs owner Gordon spelt out to Hanlon and the players
Optimism for the new season is high at Easter Road, with the takeover kicking a new lease of life into the club. It will have taken a slight dent though following the 1-1 draw with League Two side Stirling.
Hanlon and co were left frustrated by the Binos. (Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images)
Gordon took in the game and he’ll definitely see a better Hibs performance at some stage. Paul Heckingbottom’s side still look very much like a team who are in the middle of their pre-season schedule, with a bit of sluggishness present throughout their tussle with the Binos.
Hanlon explained what the new owner spelt out to him and his teammates during their meeting.
He said: “He wants it to be a happy environment for coming to work. Just honest, humble, hard working people. I think that’s what he’s had through his business days and it’s worked for him.
Hanlon’s hoping for bright days under Gordon. (Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images)
“I think he’s trying to bring all of that into a football environment. He speaks really well, he seems really passionate to make a difference at the club. That’s all the players, the management team and the fans want to hear. A guy that’s coming in passionate and wants to take the club to the next level.
“We were in great hands before with Sir Tom and what he done for the club was incredible. I’m sure he done his homework before handing it over because the club was so precious to him.
“It’s good that its changed hands now and we’re in good hands going forward. He’s not promising the world overnight, it’s going to be steady progress.
No dramatic changes as of yet. (photo by Alan Rennie/Action Plus via Getty Images)
“He’s concentrating on working behind the scenes and improving all that sort of stuff first and we’ll see where it goes.”