Nicky Cadden is officially sidelined for Hibernian’s Conference League season opener against Malisheva in Kosovo this Thursday, and it’s not looking like a quick fix. This is a tough blow for the team heading into what’s always a crucial first game, especially with a spot in the second qualifying round on the line.
Injury Woes Hit Hard Before Kick-Off
Head coach David Gray confirmed that Cadden, the team’s wide man, will miss the opener, and unfortunately, he’s expected to be out for “a few weeks” with a calf issue. That stings, no doubt. The good news, if you can call it that, is that midfielder Jamie McGrath, also dealing with a calf problem and having missed Saturday’s friendly, might be back in “days rather than weeks.” So, we’re crossing our fingers there.
Gray also updated on some other pre-season bumps and bruises. Midfielder Callum Wright, a new arrival this summer from Plymouth Argyle, had to come off before half-time in their 2-1 win over Brondby. Gray thinks that’s “just more precautionary than anything else,” saying Wright was “just feeling his thigh a little bit.” Apparently, he missed some early pre-season with a toe injury, so the team is being extra careful. And forward Boyle? He “just got some late contact before he came off” against Brondby.
Lowe Shines as Hibs Gear Up
Despite the injury concerns, there’s definitely something to be excited about. Nathan Lowe, the on-loan Stoke City forward, absolutely delivered the goods against Brondby, bagging both goals in that 2-1 victory. Gray was stoked, calling it “another good exercise for the players against a real good opponent.” He praised Lowe, saying “He started really well, but it’s his all-round play, what he brought to the team was excellent.” That kind of performance from a new face is exactly what you want to see when other guys are down.
So, Thursday’s Conference League clash against Malisheva in Kosovo is a huge one. Without Cadden for a stretch, and McGrath still questionable, the squad needs to step up big time. Can Lowe continue his form and spark the offense? We’re about to find out, and Hibs fans everywhere will be glued to their screens, ready for the season to kick off and hoping for a strong start.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Leave a Reply