Murrays in a hurry as the Hibees start four and easy
HIBS head coach Neil Lennon has admitted he has dropped his interest in former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant.
Lennon was speaking after watching his side cruise to a 4- 0 Betfred Cup victory over Montrose in the first competitive game of the new season.
Pennant featured in all three of the Leith side’s three pre-season friendlies and the 34-year-old even scored in the recent 4-0 victory over Dunfermline.
But Lennon, who was delighted a three- year deal for Scotland defender Steven Whittaker was completed on Saturday morning, admits he has turned his attention elsewhere.
Lennon said: “There’s nothing for Jermaine Pennant at the minute but we might review it later on.
“We were pleased with what he brought but we have prioritised other positions.”
Former Rangers and Norwich City full- back Whittaker watched on from the stand as a Simon Murray brace and
Simon (left) and Fraser Murray celebrate.
goals from Fraser Murray and Brian Graham saw off the Gables Endies in the opening Group D clash.
The return of Whittaker, who left Easter Road for Ibrox in 2007, brings to a n en d a pe r i o d o f p ro t ra ct e d negotiations but Lennon insists the signing was worth the wait.
He added: “Steven is a great signing for us. He’s a model pro and brings quality and experience.
“He’s had a fantastic career and there’s no question he’ll make us better.
“He’s 33 and players play longer now. He looks after himself and is in great condition. In pre- season he’s looked fine, running-wise, so three years is no problem.
“I’ve always admired him as a player. He’s been very consistent throughout his career.
“He was excellent here when he started off and was probably first pick at Rangers where he had a great time.
“He went to Norwich and got a promotion and played in the Premier League, so we’ve not got just an English Championship player coming to play for us.”
The outcome of the game itself was never in doubt. Hibs went two up inside 22 minutes against the part- timers, with the Murrays doing the damage.
Simon headed in Lewis Stevenson’s cross after 12 minutes before teeing up namesake Fraser to add a second with a low drive from 12 yards.
Simon Murray added his second in the 53rd minute when he nodded in Martin Boyle’s cross.
Substitute Graham added a fourth in the 88th minute from the penalty spot after GrahamWebster was penalised for handball.
Montrose manager Stewart Petrie said: “It was always going to be a difficult afternoon and, when you lose an early goal, you’re up against it.
“Credit to them, though, they worked as hard as they could for us and the better team won, but I’m proud of the boys.
“It was a great occasion for them, and it was great for the young ones to come on too.”