Hibs boss Lee Johnson admits Kevin Nisbet regret and reveals risk behind Harry McKirdy appearance

Lee Johnson is angry with himself for not using striker Kevin Nisbet in any of Hibs’ previous three matches, which have all ended in defeat.
Kevin Nisbet is close to a comeback for HibsKevin Nisbet is close to a comeback for Hibs
Kevin Nisbet is close to a comeback for Hibs

The Scotland internationalist is just about ready to return to action after working his way back from an anterior cruciate ligament injury and torn meniscus suffered during a goalless cinch Premiership match against Celtic in February, and even took part in the pre-match warm-up ahead of the 4-1 defeat by Aberdeen earlier this month.

While Johnson is wary of rushing the forward back into action, he admitted that he was questioning his decision not to make use of the 25-year-old from the bench, with Hibs’ struggles in the final third at the heart of their six defeats in seven games.

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"I'm almost angry with myself for not using Kevin in the last couple of games, although the astroturf might not have been great for him. After the World Cup he will go straight back in as long as he's fit. He gives us something different in attack, and then we can mix and match depending on where we need to. I'm actually positive about the future because I believe that in a fully-fit squad we have enough wins in us to reach the top six, and potentially more.

"Maintaining belief within the squad is key; I think the break will act as a natural reset. I thought Harry McKirdy did well when he came on – he's only had one training day this week so it was a big punt and a big risk to bring him on, but I thought he looked really sharp so I was pleased.”

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