Malky Mackay details Hibs transfer decision after latest deal as club to remain in 'close contact' with player
Hibs have agreed a loan deal for one of their players to gain further experience.
Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay has explained why one player has departed the club on loan.
Goalkeeper Murray Johnson has joined League of Ireland side Shelbourne until the end of their season later this year. Johnson, now 21, has previously had loans to Airdrie and Queen of the South, with two spells at each of those clubs in the lower leagues. He was most recently at Greenock Morton and now departs UK football for the first time.
Mackay insists Hibs will be in close contact with Murray in the duration of his loan but it’s the best option for his development right now. Raphael Sallinger is the club’s number one with Jordan Smith a reliable deputy behind him. Johnson’s debut could come against Nomme Kalju FC of Estonia in the second round of Conference League qualifying as his parent club take on Kosovo’s Malisheva.
Why have Hibs loaned out Murray Johnson?
The sporting director said: “Murray enjoyed a spell at Greenock Morton in the Scottish Championship during the second half of last season, and we have decided that time in the League of Ireland Premier Division with Shelbourne is the best way for him to continue to develop. We will be keeping in close contact with Murray during his time in Ireland and look forward to seeing him make good progress this season.”
Head coach David Gray commented: “This is a great opportunity for Murray to play regular senior football this season and further his development, and we look forward to monitoring his progress with Shelbourne.”
Johnson’s new club are delighted to have him in their ranks. Head Coach John Russell said: “We’re delighted to bring Murray to the club. He’s a Scottish underage international, he’s gained valuable senior experience through his loan spells, and we believe this move is the right next step in his development. He’ll add real competition to the goalkeeping group, and we’re looking forward to working with him over the coming months.”
Shelbourne on signing Murray Johnson
Shelbourne FC Technical Director Luke Byrne added: “Muzz will be a really good addition to our goalkeeping department. He is a brilliant guy who showed a real desire to play for Shelbourne. He’s hungry, he’s talented and he will fit into the culture we are trying to create in the squad.”
Hibs’ young keeper said of the move: “I’m over the moon to be signing for Shelbourne on loan. I spoke with the gaffer and Paul and they made my decision very easy. It’s a huge club and joining at such a pivotal moment in the season with Europe and the league is exciting. Can’t wait to get going starting with an amazing European game under the lights in front of the home crowd!”