Hibs silent as Falkirk open the door for Yogi swoop

HIBS are adamant the cloak of silence they have thrown around their hunt for a new manager won't be lifted until they reveal the identity of Mixu Paatelainen's successor.

As the search for a fourth manager in three years entered its second week, club officials were still remaining tight-lipped, refusing to comment on any of the individuals on an ever-growing list of possible candidates.

However, the Evening News understands Falkirk boss John Hughes remains the leading contender to take the Easter Road hot-seat although another of his former clubs, Coca Cola Championship outfit Swansea, are also on the look-out for a new manager following Roberto Martinez's move to Wigan.

And the Bairns have paved the way for Hibs to make an approach for Hughes, signalling they won't stand in his way should another club come calling, with the 44-year-old having hinted he feels that, after six years with Falkirk, it's perhaps time for a change.

Falkirk's managing director George Craig said: "No approach has been made. At the moment, it's all speculation. John has been making it known maybe he's reaching that stage in his managerial career when it's time to see if he can face another challenge.

"If an opportunity was to come along for him I would consider it. We'd be understanding. I hope that between ourselves and John and whatever club came in for him we'd be able to come to an amicable settlement."

Although known as a rugged, no-nonsense defender, Hughes has won many admirers for the passing style of football he's demanded at Falkirk where, despite staving off relegation on the final day of the season, he also guided the club to the final of the Homecoming Scottish Cup and the semi-finals of the Cooperative Insurance Cup.

As such, Falkirk qualified for Europe for the first time in their history but, it is understood, the former Hibs skipper would turn his back on that prospect to become manager of the club he's supported throughout his life.

Hibs have promised to behave in a "professional and courteous way" towards all applicants for the post, the club anxious to avoid becoming embroiled in the feverish speculation which always descends at such a time, determined that when they do, finally, unveil their choice it will be their first-choice.

Meanwhile, it has been claimed Hibs have signed Morrocan internationalist Youness Bengelloun from Olympiakos Nicosia.