Hibsed it? Boss hunt rumbles on
FROM BACK PAGE but have yet to nail down deals for either target.
It was believed ex-Leeds boss Heckingbottom had moved into pole position for the role as Neil Lennon’s successor after 48 hours of discussions with former Portsmouth and Blackburn gaffer Appleton stalled over contract details.
We understand that move also has several issues needing resolved and the club are not ruling out making a bid for another candidate.
Easter Road chief Leeann Dempster was still talking to potential managers over the weekend with others in the frame including Alan Stubbs’ ex-Hibs No.2 John Doolan and Bristol assistant Dean Holden.
The club have ruled out a return for Stubbs while Australia manager Graham Arnold was another option Dempster opted against pursuing.
Hibs are maintaining they will not rush into a decision but had expected to have the position filled by now.
They hope to have the new man on board ahead of Saturday’s Premiership clash with Hamilton with caretaker boss Eddie May expecting to stand aside early this week after last weekend’s Scottish Cup win against Raith Rovers.
He said: “I am delighted to go out on a win. The new man is coming in. I have been told this was my last game. I won’t be in charge for the Hamilton game.”
Heckingbottom is keen on a return to management after an ill-fated short spell in charge of Leeds.
Appleton has been out of work since leaving his post as Leicester No.2 following the arrival of Claude Puel.
He was understood to be the leading candidate at the weekend but a deal could not be struck and it’s looking unlikely to change barring a dramatic U-turn.
HIBS were last night scrambling in their search for a new boss after ramming into stumbling blocks with both of their prime candidates.
The Easter Road club have held advanced talks with both Paul Heckingbottom and Michael Appleton