Michael Stewart admits Hibs’ goalkeeping and defending make him feel ‘anxious’ despite a big win over Ross County on Saturday.
The Hibees delivered a massive three points to steer them clear of the relegation places in the Premiership – they are now two points clear of bottom club and rivals Hearts.
But while they got over the line at Easter Road in the end, it wasn’t a pretty performance, particularly in the first-half.
Hibs went 1-0 down to the Staggies and Stewart thinks despite the victory, there’s arguably more negatives than positives from the game.
The Premier Sports pundit called out Hibs goalkeeper Jordan Smith, as well as questioning the defending on show.
And he said the priority for Hibs in January is to recruit in these positions, otherwise their ‘shaky foundations’ will remain.
‘Anxious’ Stewart calls out Hibs goalkeeper Jordan Smith
Speaking on The Scottish Football Social Club, Stewart said: “There are so many things and aspects of this performance that really do leave me still anxious about the season ahead for Hibs.
“Goalkeeper and defence. (Jordan Smith) looked extremely nervous. If you look at the headline in terms of a 3-1 victory at home, the goalkeeper made a few good saves, I think you’re kidding yourself on a little bit.
“Just lurking under the surface there is a lot of concern. If you don’t have a good goalkeeper or good defence, you’re building on shaky foundations and it’s never going to last.
“Yes, they lack goal threat as well but they’ve got Kieran Bowie in there who will eventually come back from injury. But they need a goalkeeper and defence to actually start to build some strong foundations.”
Hibs are targeting three positions in January
We at Not The Old Firm exclusively revealed last week that Hibs are going to be in the market next month for a new goalkeeper after concerns over Josef Bursik and Smith.
Michael Stewart’s claim that they need new defenders may not come to fruition however, as it is believed boss David Gray wants more attacking firepower.
Hibs are also seeking a new striker and number 10 in January, which has added significance now given the recent injury to Mykola Kukharevych.
Kieran Bowie is also not expected back until after the new year due to injury.