Neil Lennon has made his first signings as Hibernian boss recently, snapping up Grant Holt and Ross Laidlaw. Holt, who counts Nottingham Forest, Norwich, Aston Villa and most recently Rochdale as former clubs, and Laidlaw, who was with Raith Rover last season, have both signed one-year deals with Hibs.
Lennon made his interest in veteran striker clear ahead of his arrival with the 35-year-old agreeing terms to come to Easter Road with him telling Hibs TV he’s not here to ‘make up the numbers.’
‘I said to the gaffer I’m not here just to sit and help the young lads along. I’ve come to play football. I’ve been out a long time with my knee, I’ve come back and I’m fit. I want to score goals and enjoy my football.’
In signing Holt he became the first signing for the Hibs boss.
Lennon added he was ‘exactly the type of player’ he wanted with him believing he’s got plenty to offer.
‘We’re delighted to be able to secure a player of Grant’s quality. He’ll bring good experience to the group but he’s here to play and has plenty to contribute on the field. The fact that he has chosen to come here over other clubs who were interested in him speaks volumes about his commitment and desire to do well here. He’s exactly the type of player we were looking for and I am sure he’ll prove to be very valuable to the team.’
The most prolific and successful spell of his career came with Norwich where he had four-years before moving onto Wigan in 2013 with him not really managing to settle in the years since as he overcame a serious injury too.
After Holt the second arrival was Laidlaw.
With Conrad Logan allowed to leave and Mark Oxley poised to join Southend a need for Lennon to bring in at least one ‘keeper was clear with 23-year-old Laidlaw secured for the coming season having been with Raith since 2010.
