Hibernian head coach Marink Reedijk has explained his decision to send defender Grant Hanley on as a striker in the closing stages of Saturday's defeat to Celtic, saying he wanted to create chaos and prevent the match from being put to bed.
The Scotland international was introduced from the bench for the final push at Easter Road, a move Reedijk described as an attempt to change the momentum after Celtic had gained control.
Old-School Tactics Almost Pay Off
Reedijk admitted the switch was an old-school move and felt it nearly produced an equaliser, with Hibs creating two good chances from Hanley's presence up front.
“I saw the momentum of the game change in the favour of Celtic. The thing was for me that I wanted to impact something. I wanted to create a little bit of chaos,” he said.
“Grant did a fantastic job in executing. I think we got two good chances because of that, and there could have been an equaliser there.”
The Dutchman acknowledged the tactic may have looked like traditional Scottish-style football, adding: “I take my hat off to Grant. Was it that some good old-fashioned Scottish style tactics? You know better than me. Because you guys are from Scotland.”
Boyle Illness Forces Late Change
Reedijk was forced to alter his team sheet before kick-off after Martin Boyle called off sick, with Joe Newell drafted in at late notice. Newell's quick thinking helped Hibs take an early lead.
The manager, who had previously stripped Newell of the captaincy, praised the midfielder's professionalism and is waiting on Boyle's fitness ahead of Wednesday's match against St Mirren.
“We have to see. He went home during kick-off I believe. First let him sleep and take some time and then we will decide and see how it is tomorrow,” Reedijk said.
“Joe is called in late and he goes and plays like that. What does that say about him? It's very professional.”
Bottom of the Table but Encouraged
Hibs remain bottom of the Premiership and Reedijk is still searching for his first win, with the defeat marking a third consecutive loss since he took charge.
Despite the result, he felt the performance was an improvement and that his side matched Celtic for long spells.
“The result, it's not what I want. Not what we deserve I think as well,” he said. “I think the performance we put on the pitch was an improvement on what we did over the last couple of weeks.”
He added: “I believe that we are in a good way and then the points will come. It will come.”
