Hibs keeper Ofir Marciano opens up being back-up for Scottish Cup final and emotion of past week

Ofir Marciano will wave goodbye to Hibs at the end of the season.

The Israel goalkeeper missed out on the team’s victory in Aberdeen midweek after his pregnant wife Shelley and their son Sun were caught up in mid-air drama when their flight to Israel was diverted. A consequence of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, missile attacks prevented their plane from landing, and reminded Marciano what is important.

“There are things that are bigger than football and I experienced that this week,” said Marciano. “I want to say thank you to the manager and staff who supported me and helped me to stay focused and help my family in a tough time. They are home and safe now and that is the important thing.”

The 31-year-old is out of contract this summer, and with team-mate Matt Macey installed as the number one for the Scottish Cup games, as the season reaches its climax at Hampden next weekend, he will have to satisfy himself with the back-up role.

“Of course I would like to play but Matt deserves it,” said Marciano. “He played the whole competition and the gaffer decided he is the keeper who will play in the cup. But I still feel a major part of the team and I need to push Matt to be the best that he can be. I will do my best to help the team win the cup.

“I am happy that I have been here at this stage, when we have managed to create such a great moment for this club and finish on a high. We have finished third and now have the chance to win the cup final and I am happy to be part of it all – but then I am ready for a new challenge.

“I will never close the door here. It is like my second home and it will be interesting to see what happens in the future.

“There is emotion but we still have an important week ahead and I will stay focused and do the best I can to help the team.”