Doig so glad he said no to that free holiday
Josh Doig has been linked with a string of English big names this spring including Leicester City, Leeds United, Manchester City and Arsenal.
Tied to Hibs until 2025, he knows that the Leith club will not stand in his way with owner Ron Gordon stating on record he was “excited” at news that Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers is a fan of the teenager.
At the same time, though, he appreciates the argument put forward by John Collins that staying on at Easter Road might be the best plan at this stage of his footballing development.
“I know what’s for me won’t go by me,” said the Scotland youth internationalist.
“It’s crazy because I’ve grown up watching all these clubs.
“Whatever happens, happens. But as long as I’m playing football, whether it’s here, at Barcelona, or back at Queen’s Park, that’s what I want.
“I know Hibs is a great pathway to go to higher places. You see that with the likes of John McGinn (now at Aston Villa) but it is still a massive club itself and I don’t think there’s a better place to develop as a player.
“I’m happy at Hibs and that’s all that matters. I want to keep working hard and give everything I’ve got for them.”
Doig also gives credit to Queen’s Park, with a loan spell at the Spiders having launched his senior career.
“I remember it was either Queen’s Park or go away to Portugal with the 18s,” he said.
“I had been looking at it as a free holiday. But I knew Queen’s Park was the better option as I would be playing against men.
“And at the first training session Ray McKinnon told my dad that I’d be starting at the weekend.
“My first start was against Cowdenbeath at Hampden and I was absolutely terrified.
“I remember thinking I was too small. I was very nervous. But I got on the pitch and made a few passes and felt like I could compete.
“I thought the men were bigger physically but then I realised I could compete. From there I never really looked back.”