Hibs inspired by 'artist' formerly known as Joe Newell - why Marink Reedijk is relying on former captain
Veteran playmaker revelling in advanced role under new manager
Marink Reedijk has hailed Joe Newell for bringing a touch of artistry to the Hibs midfield, with the former club captain identified as a key element in his team’s recent recovery. And the Easter Road boss believes Newell’s return to fitness and form has provided balance in a crucial area of the park.
The 33-year-old has gone from bit-part player to starting star under Reedijk, burying painful memories of repeated injury struggles – including major abdominal surgery – with a series of impressive performances in recent weeks. Man of the Match in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final win over Hearts at Hampden, the Englishman was impressive again as Hibs battered Aberdeen 4-0 at Pittodrie on Saturday.
Ex-skipper involved in both goals at Hampden
Playing in a more advanced role, his ability to break the lines and create openings for team-mates has been particularly evident. He was involved in both goals against Hearts and set up Jamie McGrath for the opener against the Dons.
Reedijk, impressed with both the quality and durability of a player who has started the last four games, including three in the space of a week, said: “For me, it's about Joe being fit. If Joe feels good, then he can bring this to the pitch.
“I think what also helps is that our way of playing suits him really well. His qualities come to life. And the balance on the midfield with him, Miguel Chaiwa and Jamie McGrath is really good. And then he gets a sort of freedom within there in order to find his spaces.
“He knows, I always say, learn the rules like a pro so you can break them like an artist. If you explain the rules to Joe, then he can break them like an artist because he understands what is needed there.”
With Chaiwa, Thibault Klidje, Owen Elding and Jacob Devaney all away on international duty, Reedijk has given the rest of his squad some time off this week. But they will return ahead of a bounce game with Falkirk this weekend.
Admitting to mixed emotions over the international break coming just as his team hit their stride, the Dutch coach said: “For me, it's always a period which is a strange period. Sometimes you want to continue. Sometimes it's nice. And it's always a mixture of it all.
“So personally, it's nice to have also a little week, more of a calm week, so to say, because the week after is again a normal week. But at the same time, I also want to continue and want to push. But it is like it is, so we have to cope with the circumstances.”