Tuesday, March 19, 2024
SportHibsRoss Laidlaw ready for talks with gaffer Neil Lennon as Hibs keeper...

Ross Laidlaw ready for talks with gaffer Neil Lennon as Hibs keeper admits sitting on the bench is a young man’s game

BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport

HIBERNIAN goalkeeper Ross Laidlaw is adamant he has proved his Premiership pedigree – as he prepares for talks about his future with Easter Road gaffer Neil Lennon.

The 26-year-old has slipped to third-choice in Leith following the loan capture of Adam Bogdan from Liverpool and Ofir Marciano’s return to full fitness.

Although currently sidelined as he recovers from a thigh tear, Laidlaw’s hopes of breaking into the side when his rehabilitation is complete look increasingly slim.

Laidlaw spreads some Christmas cheer at Easter Road: © Craig Watson

And the former Raith Rovers stopper, who has excelled against the likes of Brondby and Molde in the Europa League as well as performing solidly domestically, has not ruled out seeking a move away from the capital.

He said: “It’s been a hugely frustrating season. With Adam [Bogdan] coming in and Ofi [Marciano] coming back to full fitness, I’ve dropped down to third choice.

“Picking up an injury recently wasn’t ideal, either, and I just need to knuckle down with a view to getting back on the pitch.

“It’s hard to say exactly what will happen in January. I’ll speak to the manager and the coaching staff and decide the way forward. A lot depends on what happens with Ofir and Adam.

“It’s not a great situation for myself, being third-choice. I want to play games, I feel like I’m at a good age and can contribute when given the opportunity. I have done well when I’ve been given game time this season.

“I’ve said to the club that I feel like I’m in a point in my career that I should be contributing. Sitting on the bench waiting for a chance is a young man’s game!

“I think I’ve proved I can play in the Premiership and I just want the chance to do that.

“The gaffer [Lennon] knows that I’m not happy picking up a wage for sitting about not doing anything. That is what it feels like at the moment.

“I want to contribute and I want to play. It has been a tough 18 months or so – with injuries as well – so I just want to get fit and get playing.”

Ross Laidlaw was speaking as the SPFL Trust launched Festive Friends, an initiative to provide free lunch, companionship and the means to get there at clubs across the country. The programme is this year being funded by the SPFL.

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