Hibs boss Jack Ross talks up hopes of keeping Ofir Marciano and Joe Newell

Hibs have confirmed that they have kicked off contract talks aimed at keeping Ofir Marciano and Joe Newell at Easter Road beyond their existing agreements.

Hibs goalkeeper Ofir Marciano was in top form for Israel against Scotland midweek. Photo by Seffi Magriso/SNS Group

The Israeli goalkeeper and the English midfielder have been star performers for the Leith side this term and with their current deals due to expire in the summer, club officials are working to formalise extensions before any other suitors come calling.

“We have initiated conversations with their representatives exploring if they want to stay,” explained manager Jack Ross on the eve of this afternoon’s league visit from Celtic “It’s something we are keen on, for both Ofir and Joe, and we will see where the coming weeks take us. I certainly want to keep them as they have both played a big part.

“Ofir enjoys life in Edinburgh and his family do as well. You’re not always privy to what a player would like, from a personal and professional point of view, but there’s a lot of things in our favour. He enjoys working with the staff and his performances have been good. There are always unknowns that come up during these conversations but I feel we are in a good position to extend his stay.”

On top form as he helped Israel thwart Scotland’s chance of qualifying for the World Cup via the Nations League, 31-year-old Marciano did not return to Hibs training until yesterday morning but Ross has no doubts about him facing Celtic.

“When you get a player back on a Friday and there’s a fatigue element to it then it helps that he is feeling good about his performance. He will come in and be ready.”

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