Hibs fail in bid to re-sign Leigh Griffiths

HIBERNIAN have had a late move for former hero Leigh Griffiths knocked back by Celtic.

Griffiths starred at Easter Road for two seasons. Picture: Robert Perry

It was reported that officials from the two clubs were negotiating a loan deal that would see Hibs pay a percentage of the striker’s salary.

Griffiths was apparently keen on the idea of rejoining his boyhood heroes, whom he played at for two seasons between 2011 and 2013, scoring 39 goals in 78 appearances.

However, it has since emerged that Celtic have rebuffed Hibs’ advances, wishing to keep the player in the squad for the increased workload brought about by their place in the Europa League group stage.

The news will disappoint Hibs manager Alan Stubbs who is desperately looking for a striker after losing Farid El Alagui to a potentially serious ankle injury suffered in the club’s 2-1 defeat at Alloa.

It is understood that Hibs have managed to secure the services of one Celtic player after agreeing to sign winger Dylan McGeouch on loan.

The 21-year old made his Parkhead debut way back in November 2011, but has yet to establish himself as a regular in the Celtic squad.