Lee Johnson open to more transfers but says Hibs have gone over budget after Martin Boyle arrival

Lee Johnson hasn’t ruled out more comings and goings before the transfer window closes at the end of August, but admitted it is unlikely after Ron Gordon “tickled over” the budget to land Martin Boyle.
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The Hibs boss has overseen a huge turnover of players since his appointment in the summer, with David Marshall, Nohan Kenneh, Rocky Bushiri, Lewis Miller, Momodou Bojang, Jair Tavares, Aiden McGeady, Elie Youan and Marijan Cabraja all arriving before the dramatic return of Boyle from Saudi Arabia was railroaded through by the club owner last week.

Johnson admits players would have to depart before he is able to bring anyone else in.

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He said: “I think there would have to be a couple of outs if there are to be ins. I think we’ve probably just tickled over the budget. But we’re always open and there’s always a little room for manoeuvre.”

Hibs manager Lee Johnson addresses the media at the Hibernian Training Centre. Picture:  Rob Casey / SNSHibs manager Lee Johnson addresses the media at the Hibernian Training Centre. Picture:  Rob Casey / SNS
Hibs manager Lee Johnson addresses the media at the Hibernian Training Centre. Picture: Rob Casey / SNS

Boyle won’t be given 90 minutes against Livingston this weekend, but Johnson has a decision to make over whether or not to start him or bring him on as an impact sub.

The Australian international admitted after last weekend’s heroic introduction from the bench to rescue a point against Hearts that he hasn’t kicked a ball since June and needs to build up his fitness.

He has trained hard at East Mains this week but is still a number of weeks away from being match fit and in peak condition.

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“I wouldn’t fear starting him, it’s just how long he lasts,” Johnson explained. “So whether it is an impact from the bench or starting and coming off…

“It’s delicate because we have to push him in training, but at the same time he has to be fresh and not leggy for the weekend. In pre-season you can go through games leggy because it is about building up base fitness. In this scenario we haven’t got that option.”

Johnson is awaiting for scan results to determine the severity of Josh Campbell’s injury, making him a doubt for the Livingston game.