MALONEY IMPRESSED WITH SCOTS STRIKER

New Hibs manager Shaun Maloney insists he is determined to help Kevin Nisbet get even better after hailing the striker’s attributes.

The Scotland international scored his first goal under Maloney’s stewardship in last weekend’s victory at Dundee United, taking his tally for the season to seven.

Former Raith Rovers and Dunfermline striker Nisbet netted 18 times last term as Jack Ross masterminded a third-place finish in the Premiership but is likely to struggle to match that goal haul this season.

However, Maloney has been delighted with Nisbet’s overall output from his first two games in charge.

Maloney said: “Kevin’s got every sort of aspect you look for in a nine. Sometimes you get nines that have stand-out attributes in certain areas.

“Kevin, I think, has a lot. He was in the box for the goal against Dundee United but actually the goal starts from him dropping into the 10 position.

“Depending on the opponent he can really do so many things. He is very, very good – Kevin – so I’m looking forward to helping him try to improve and hopefully produce performances like the one against Dundee United more often.”

Maloney was also thrilled with wing-back Chris Cadden’s display in the Boxing Day 3-1 victory at Tannadice after the former Motherwell player netted his first goal for the club.

Cadden has been hampered by injury since joining from MLS side Columbus Crew a year ago but is now enjoying a consistent run in the team.

Maloney added: “Chris has been excellent in the last two games, he’s got lots of energy in that position and he was part of the first goal as well.”