Often when it comes to a loan signing, they arrive for a matter of months before drifting off into the distance with a mere handful of forgettable appearances to their name, while others etch their name forever in Easter Road history.
But ultimately, how a player is best remembered is governed by the very heartbeat of the club – and that’s the fans.
So we decided to ask you for your greatest ever Hibees loanee.
While some of your choices made their temporary moves permanent, others only stayed for the season. However, most importantly, all of them lit up Easter Road (and cup finals at Hampden Park for some) during their loan spells.
Relive your most memorable moments from your 10 of favourite Hibernian loanees by scrolling down and clicking through the pages to see our comprehensive list (in no particular order). Add your own special memories by following our dedicated Hibs page on Facebook.
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1. Jason Naismith
The right-back was impressive under Jack Ross last term, and Alan Buchan named him as one of his favourites. Photo: Contributed
2. Stephane Oméonga
The Belgian midfielder was chosen by Thomas Welsh who said he was "tremendous in his first spell". Photo: SNS
3. Gary Caldwell
The former Scotland defender arrived at Hibs on loan from Newcastle in 2002 and later paved the way for him to return a few years later and become a key player under Tony Mowbray. Photo: SNS Roddy Scott
4. Jamie Maclaren
"I quite liked Maclaren in his first spell reckon him and Griffiths would be unreal together" said Lee McMullan was describing his dream "loan" forwardline. Photo: SNS