Hibernian Lobbying for Stadium Switches to Accommodate Supporters
Hibernian Football Club are lobbying for stadium switches in order to accommodate their supporters for their upcoming Europa Conference League qualifying adventure. The Edinburgh club face a second-round trip to either the Faroe Islands or Andorra to meet Vikingur or Inter Club D’Escaldes. It is hoped that winger Martin Boyle will be fit to return from long-term injury for that trip on 3 August.
Chief Executive Ben Kensell commented on the draw, “It’s a good draw for us. But there are a few logistical issues. They are two small clubs with two very small stadiums. That’s giving me sleepless nights since we have many fans that want to travel. We want to compete well in Europe and we want our fans to share that experience with us, so we are challenging Uefa at the moment as to whether there can be ground changes.”
Hibs have recent experience of playing in both Andorra and the Faroe Islands, with their 2018 tie with Runavik moved to a much bigger stadium in Toftir. The 2021 win over Santa Coloma was played behind closed doors due to Covid restrictions.
Martin Boyle Injury Update
Martin Boyle has been out of action since last October, missing the World Cup with Australia after a knee operation. However, the 30-year-old is back in training and on schedule for an early season comeback.
Manager Lee Johnson has started reshaping his squad, with Adam Le Fondre, Jordan Obita and Jojo Wollacott recruited after the sale of Scotland striker Kevin Nisbet to Millwall. Chief Executive Ben Kensell commented on the deal, “It was pleasing to get the deal done for Nissy, that’s freed us up to bring in the players we wanted. But it’s still early days and there’s a lot more work to be done.”
Conclusion
Hibernian Football Club are doing their best to accommodate their supporters for their upcoming Europa Conference League qualifying adventure. They are lobbying for stadium switches in order to make sure their fans can share the experience with them. Martin Boyle is also on track for an early season comeback from his long-term injury, and manager Lee Johnson has started reshaping his squad with new recruits.