Hibs star Murray turns into Mixu's flexible friend

HIBS manager Mixu Paatelainen today hailed Ian Murray for his versatility and admitted having a few jack-of-all-trades in his squad makes his own job easier.

Murray has excelled in central midfield, central defence and at left-back this term, while others like Sol Bamba, Steven Thicot and Lewis Stevenson have all been fielded in more than one position.

Paatelainen insisted versatility is something he looks for in a player, as the fact he has more options within individuals can make it seem like he has a bigger squad.

As he prepares his men for Saturday's trip to Love Street to face St Mirren, the Finn said: "It is extremely helpful having guys like Ian, Lewis, Steven and Sol who can play in various positions and perform well in different roles.

"These guys give us extra options. Versatility is something I keep in mind when I am looking to sign someone, as having players who can play in more than one position can make your squad seem bigger.

"On the other hand, even if they can play more than one role, it is good if they can try and play in a settled position as much as possible. Ian Murray is a prime example of someone who can do a great job wherever he is asked to play. He has played in midfield, at left back and in defence for us and he has always done an excellent job."

In a further boost to his options, Paatelainen today welcomed Paul Hanlon back to Easter Road, although the Finn insisted the teenager shouldn't be too eager to force his way back into the first team. The 17-year-old left-back spent ten days helping Scotland Under-19s qualify for the Elite Stage of the UEFA European Championships.

Paatelainen said: "Paul is back with us now after international duty, Scotland did well, they qualified for the Elite Stages and he played in all of the games.

"He has been playing mostly in the reserves for us lately, but he is still only a young boy and you have to remember that it is not only physically demanding to play in the first team, but it is also mentally very demanding.

"There is a lot of pressure on you not to make mistakes and everyone is watching how you play more closely. You are scrutinised. Paul is only 17 and he has already had a very hard season, he was involved in our Intertoto Cup games against Elfsborg and he played in the first games of the season.

"I felt that it was maybe time to give him a little break, I think it is good for him. You have got to expect that players of his age will break into the first-team and then be in the reserves for another spell."