Hibernian are set to loan Rudi Molotnikov and Jacob MacIntyre to Arbroath. Head coach David Gray rates the pair highly but wants them to get more first-team exposure.
MacIntyre had a spell at Gayfield last season and is now set to return for a second stint. The 20-year-old midfielder will be joined by his Hibs teammate Molotnikov, who has already had a fair bit of first-team exposure at Hibs.
Championship experience for young Hibs stars
Gray thinks both players will benefit from playing every week in the Championship. The Scotland under-19 cap had a spell at Stirling Albion a couple of years ago. Both deals are likely to be until January in the first instance.
Hibs already have a number of their squad out on loan. Keeper Murray Johnson is out at Irish side Shelbourne, defender Joseph McGrath is at Alloa Athletic, keeper Ryan Mallon is at Bonnyrigg Rose and midfielder Josh Campbell has joined Premiership rivals St Johnstone for the season.
Arbroath's record of developing young talent
Hibs also have a cooperation agreement with Stranraer. Defender Lewis Gillie and midfielder Zach Bruce are both on loan at Stair Park.
Arbroath have a track record of developing young Premiership talent under David Gold and Colin Hamilton. That has helped them land the Hibs pair. MacIntyre was a success last season, as was Findlay Marshall, who came in on loan from Aberdeen. Marshall was named the Championship's player of the year and won a new long-term deal at Pittodrie.
Arbroath strengthen squad
Arbroath have moved to strengthen their squad this week. They currently sit in the top four and are pushing for the play-offs.
Record Sport revealed earlier that Arbroath are set to sign Kyle Magennis. The former St Mirren, Hibs and Kilmarnock midfielder will sign a deal for the rest of the season.
