Hibs’ Head Coach Jack Ross believes that teenager Ryan Shanley has the attributes for a bright future in the game although he still has a lot to learn.
The youngster made his Hibs’ debut as a late substitute in Saturday’s 3-0 victory over St Mirren on Saturday and demonstrated enough to justify his inclusion in the squad.
The Hibs’ supporter was one of five Academy players on the pitch at the end of the game which was another pleasing factor for Ross.
After the final whistle he told Hibernian TV: “ He (Ryan Shanley) was involved in the squad today on merit. He has been impressive since pre-season but then we took him out for a couple of weeks then brought him back in amongst the group for this period. I really like him. I think he has got attributes that could give him a bright future.
“He has a lot to learn as well but I was keen to try and get him on the pitch today. It was a big moment for him as well. He is a Hibs’ fan and his family are Hibs’ fans.
“I sometimes get a bit blasé about things as a manager about guys of that age and how much it means to them so it’s been a brilliant day for him and I am delighted that he made a contribution on the pitch as well and showed people what he can bring .
“It was nice to have so many Academy players on the pitch at the end of the game. There was a few on the pitch. Josh Doig again perfect so a good day for us.”
Shanley added: “It’s an amazing feeling, especially for the club you support. It’s a dream come true. I knew I had to kick on in pre-season if I wanted to get my debut this season so it’s been good. I have worked really hard.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
