Hibs 'only wanted starters' in January window, says Mackay

Director of football Malky Mackay has explained why Hibernian only made one signing in the January transfer window, citing the importance of "not breaking team cohesion" as a reason.

Hibernian added Gambia international Alasana Manneh to their midfield ranks, while Harry McKirdy, Luke Amos and Jake Doyle-Hayes - as well as youngsters Josh O'Connor and Josh Landers - left the club permanently and Nohan Kenneh departed on loan.

Mackay stressed "only players who would break into the starting XI" were considered by the club.

"It was important we didn't break the team cohesion, the momentum that's going at the moment, the culture that's in the squad," Mackay told Hibs TV.

"So we brought in Alasana Manneh into the midfield and as far as the rest of the squad was concerned, we just had to make sure anyone else who was going to be considered would actually break into the starting XI.

"That wasn't the case and the model going forward is to make sure our short-term and long-term goals are sustainable."

Mackay added that the five players coming back from injury - Kieron Bowie, Joe Newell, Marvin Ekpiteta, Elie Youan and Mykola Kukharevych - will be a boost for the second half of the season as Hibs look for a top-six finish.

On Youan, who remains a Hibs player after deadline-day talks with Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers collapsed, Mackay expressed his delight at the forward staying.

"We consider everything that's best for the football club and if it's not the best thing, then it doesn't happen," he added. "We're delighted he's staying."