Friday, March 29, 2024
In BriefHibs head coach Alan Stubbs delighted to see James Keatings gaining plaudits

Hibs head coach Alan Stubbs delighted to see James Keatings gaining plaudits

BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport

Hibs head coach Alan Stubbs insists he is delighted to see the plaudits being shared among his strikers after James Keatings stole the limelight from Jason Cummings.

Keatings, plying his trade at the tip of a midfield diamond, bagged a sensational hat-track against St Mirren on Saturday to inspire the Hibees to a 4-1 victory.

Cummings, who is reportedly attracting interest from the likes of Rotherham United and Fulham, had to be satisfied with a single strike against the Buddies to take his tally for the season to 13.

(Pic: Andy1916)
Stubbs applauded Keatings’ cultured left foot (Pic: Andy1916)

 

Stubbs has been unsurprised by the praised heaped on Keatings this week and is delighted to see another front-man being recognised.

He said: “It was a quality hat-trick of different types of goals and he will deservedly get the plaudits for that.

“Over the last couple of weeks, our other strikers have been the ones getting the praise.

“If we can keep sharing it around, then great.”

Keatings’ first strike in Paisley was a wonderful curling drive from the edge of the box, which did nothing to surprise Stubbs.

He added: “We do a lot of training on finishing – and the movement that he can get on the ball is unbelievable. As soon as it dropped to him on the edge of the box, I fancied him to score.

“It was no surprise whatsoever to see it nestling in the back of the net.”

Hibs, who were paired with St Johnstone in the semi-final of the League Cup this week, are now on a run of seven successive victories, including triumphs against Rangers, Dundee United and St Mirren.

Stubbs continued: “The players deserve so much credit for the games we have had, and the profile of those matches. To come through them all with maximum points, and cup progress, is fantastic.

“In the last few games we have played St Mirren away, Raith away, Falkirk away and Queen of the South, as well as Rangers and Dundee United. That is  really tough and taxing run.

“The boys really are in a good place at the moment and we want that to continue as long as possible. I can’t speak highly enough about our players at this moment in time.”

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