Hibs can cover loss of Arnot and Smith to Man Utd

Hibs Ladies boss Grant Scott has praised outgoing duo Lizzie Arnot and Kirsty Smith '“ but insists he has enough talent at his disposal to cover for their loss.

Grant Scott

Scottish internationalists Arnot, 22, and Smith, 24, sealed dream moves to newly-formed FA Women’s Championship outfit Manchester United last month having spent the vast majority of their careers with the Hibees.

The Capital outfit return to SWPL 1 action after a five-week hiatus with a trip to Hamilton Accies tomorrow and could go level on points at the top with champions Glasgow City.

And although Scott was disappointed to see both Arnot and Smith leave, he admits he couldn’t stand in their way of furthering their careers.

“Naturally it’s disappointing to lose players of the calibre of Lizzie & Kirsty,” Scott said. “But at Hibs we’re very proud to have been involved with their career and development thus far as both players have been integral to the success of the side from their teenage years. To have the opportunity to represent the global brand that is Manchester United is one neither could turn down and they leave with our absolute best wishes for continued success.

“Back in January when I was assisting Kevin (Milne), we had discussions about this eventuality and recruited with that in mind. Players were brought in to compete but possibly cover any positions of players that might leave so we are certainly not panicking. I believe the players that remain are producing enough quality to allow us to compete.”