Ex-Hibs loanee reflects on 'last minute' transfer decision and Easter Road struggles after Premiership return

A former Hibs loanee has admitted his ill-fated spell at Easter Road was a major learning curve after sealing a return to Scottish football.

Zach Mitchell had already gained Premiership experience with St Johnstone before arriving in Leith on another loan deal from EFL Championship side Charlton Athletic at the start of last season.

The 21-year-old had hoped to gain regular first-team minutes in the Scottish capital, but made just two league appearances for Hibs, totalling 128 minutes. He was subsequently recalled by Charlton after just six months.

Zach Mitchell hoped to build up more first-team experience with Hibs but only ended up totalling 128 Premiership minutes | SNS Group

Now returning north of the border after re-joining newly-promoted Saints for a second temporary spell, Mitchell has been reflecting on his time at Hibs.

Mitchell: ‘I didn’t get the minutes I was looking for’

“When I went up to Hibs it was a very last minute decision,” Mitchell told The Courier. “I had enjoyed the challenge of Scottish football and thought it would be a good opportunity. I knew going into it there might not be as much game time or guaranteed minutes.

“There was the AFCON and I thought some Hibs players might be away at that which would give me opportunities down the line. I then could’ve tried to stake a claim to keep a place. I felt I took the opportunities when they did come but it was difficult.

“There was a lot of learning in other ways, although I didn’t get the minutes I was looking for. Nothing is guaranteed for me here – you need to earn your shirt. I will try to do that. I’m really excited about the challenge.”