A number of Hibs regulars are heading into make-or-break territory in the season ahead, with some big names and stalwart performers among those entering the final year of their existing contracts. And, with more signings on the way, competition for places is only likely to increase between now and the later-than-usual Deadline Day of September 3.
As David Gray looks to improve on last season’s fifth-place finish in the Scottish Premiership, balancing domestic demands with ambitions to progress in the UEFA Conference League, he’ll need plenty of bodies at his disposal. As things stand, he doesn’t lack for numbers.
With the players back in pre-season training and the first friendly less than a week away, we look at the full group available to the Easter Road gaffer, picking out those on short-time contracts - and assessing their place in the pecking order heading to the new campaign:
5. CB Warren O'Hora
Probably the most consistently impressive performer in the back line last season. The Irishman, heading into the final year of his current contract, may find himself getting an offer to extend soon enough ... | SNS Group
6. CB Grant Hanley
Don't come home too soon ... but the Scotland stalwart will be a key figure for Hibs as he heads into the final year of his contract. | Getty Images
7. CB Jack Iredale
Aussie centre-half will have to rediscover that first-season form if he's to nail down a place on the left of the back three, | SNS Group
8. CB Rocky Bushiri
Hibs will miss the big man, who is facing a lengthy spell out with an Achilles' tendon injury sustained in the final game of the season. | SNS Group