Joe Newell reacts to Hibs left-back role as midfielder admits he was unaware of Lee Johnson's plan

Joe Newell admitted he had no idea Hibs boss Lee Johnson was going to deploy him as an auxiliary left-back for the final 15 minutes of Tuesday night’s Premier Sports Cup defeat by Falkirk.

The Easter Road boss had hinted that he could utilise the 29-year-old in defence when he spoke after the 5-0 victory over Clyde.

"I was considering playing Joe at left-back in a couple of these games just to have a look.

"He's another good player who you want to try and have in your starting XI and that's the good thing: when you've got 16, 17 good players who you want to start, it means they're doing something right."

Newell moved to the back four to replace starting left-back Lewis Stevenson who made way for midfielder Nohan Kenneh for the final quarter-hour of the match.

"The gaffer didn't tell me about that, I didn't know until someone sent me the article at the weekend,” Newell said afterwards.

"Listen, I see myself as a midfielder but I'll play anywhere.

Joe Newell admitted his stint at left-back came as a surprise

"I've played left-back loads of times before, I've played wingback, and obviously I filled in at left-back the last 15 minutes tonight.

"If the gaffer wants me to play in goals I'll go in goals – it's one of those situations where you'll do anything to help the team."

Johnson has previously spoken about wanting, and needing, his players to be versatile but he is expected to complete a deal for Croatian left-back Marijan Čabraja to replace Josh Doig, who has completed a £3 million move to Hellas Verona.