Harris aiming to grab his chance

HIBS winger Alex Harris admits he is determined to fulfil his potential under new boss Neil Lennon – three years after setting Hampden alight.

The pacey midfielder announced his arrival on the big stage in only his third start for the club when he inspired the Leith side to a stunning comeback in the 2013 Scottish Cup semi-final against Falkirk.

Harris – then only 18 – scored the first and set up Leigh Griffiths for the second as Pat Fenlon’s side roared back from a 3-0 half-time deficit to win 4-3 after extra-time.

But Harris has only shown glimpses of that form since that memorable day in Glasgow. A persistent ankle injury hampered the youngster the following season as Hibs were relegated under Terry Butcher.

He was farmed out to Dundee by Alan Stubbs in January 2015 and spent the whole of last term on loan at Queen of the South, making 27 appearances.

But after former Celtic boss Lennon admitted that he is a big admirer of the playmaker, Harris has vowed to take his chance.

Harris, who came off the bench in Thursday’s 1-0 Europa League defeat to Brondby, said: “I’ve heard what the new manager has said and it’s obviously great to hear when you’ve been away on loan.

“I’ve got a new chance, a new manager to impress and it’s now down to me. He’s just said he wants to get my confidence up a bit.

“I broke through when I was younger, then I got the injury and things didn’t happen towards the end of the season when I was fit.

“These things happen. I’m old enough to accept it and get on with it. Last year I got pushed out on loan when I got back from pre-season, so obviously the old manager made up his mind then.

“But with the new manager, everyone’s got a clean slate and he’s told me it’s a new start and a good chance to impress.”

Harris was delighted to get a run out at Easter Road again despite the narrow defeat to the Danes in the second qualifying round first leg.

“It was great to be back out, especially on a Euro night,” he said.

“We’ve not had that in a wee while. The fans were brilliant and we got a good turnout.”