As Jack gets to work on Hibs
PROSPECTS
His range of passing has never been in doubt, but he has employed it as effectively in the first half of this season as he ever has.
Fans of other clubs – one in particular (Rangers) – have taken a cynical line on the Hibs man’s contribution, provoked by what they see as simpering coverage.
But there is no smoke without fire, and Allan has been in red-hot form this season, even when Hibs have not.
His importance to the Hibees is emphasised by the statistics. With seven goals and six assists to his name, he has done more than most to keep heads held high around Easter Road.
Times were tough under Heckingbottom, but Allan kept plugging away.
Under Jack Ross, he will be determined to shine.
Hibees fans had high expectations at the start of the season, but they were quickly tempered.
As a club, Hibs want to be focused on catching teams above them. But for a time under Paul Heckingbottom, fearful glances were beginning to be cast downwards.
In acting quickly to stop the rot, the Hibs board gained a progressive young manager in Jack Ross – and progress is what the club demands going forward. Between now and the rest of the season, that means a comfortable top-six finish, and preferably a serious tilt at a European place.
Such is the talent in the Easter Road dressing room, that is an entirely legitimate aim, as is a crack at the Scottish Cup.
Jack Ross won’t feel obliged to make too many changes to his squad this month, though two or three hand-picked additions would help.
A defensively-minded midfielder will be top of the Hibs gaffer’s shopping list.
If he gets his man, the only way will be up.