O’Brien exit not certain

Hibs boss today moved to quell rumours of Irish winger Alan O’Brien’s imminent departure from Easter Road.

Barnsley and Preston are the latest clubs to be linked with a move for O’Brien, who has been capped five times by the Republic and is also said to be interesting Blackpool, Carlisle and Hartlepool.

Great things were expected from the 23 year old when he arrived from Premiership side Newcastle as John Collins reshaped the squad following a host of exits last summer.

The Irishman has failed to justify his tag as an explosive winger since moving to Easter Road and has made only two starts under Paatelainen.

However the Hibs boss has dismissed the idea of the player leaving the club and insisted he was still very much part of his plans.

‘Alan is an exciting player, he has pace, is very skilful and can supply crosses. He must have been very frustrated the way the year has gone.

‘He had some injuries, we used some other options and possibly the formation we have played doesn’t suit him.

‘I don’t think he started enough matches but he has attributes, he is a good player, very useful and hopefully there is more to come from him.’