Hibernian Mallan’s magic right foot

Paul Heckingbottom’s impressive start continued at Livingston, where Celtic, Rangers, Hearts and, indeed, ourselves have struggled this season. Stevie Mallan’s winning goal conjured up images of similar strikes by Mo Salah and Eden Hazard, and was a perfect example of what he is capable of. Mallan is an enigma as he fails to exert enough influence during matches, but there is no doubt there is magic in his right foot.

If there is no guarantee of an easy game in this league, then certain fixtures do suggest a more difficult task. Tonight’s home match against Killie and Saturday’s derby fall into that category. Hibs’ record at Tynecastle is deplorable but one positive aspect of having a new manager is that he isn’t saddled with the burden of history.