Hibs: Arpinon told Zoubir to take loan move

Hibernian’s latest arrival Abdellah Zoubir has revealed how former Easter Road favourite Freddie Arpinon convinced him to move to the Scottish capital.

New Hibernian signing Abdellah Zoubir watches from the stand. Picture: SNS

The winger penned a one-year loan deal from French outfit FC Istres last week as Hibs seek some much-needed creativity following a turgid 0-0 draw with Ross County on Saturday.

Arpinon is currently assistant manager of the Ligue 2 side and, when it became clear Zoubir was destined to leave Istres, the 44-year-old recommended a switch to Leith.

Despite speaking little English, Zoubir was able to praise the influence of Arpinon, who played for two years in Edinburgh between 2001 and 2003.

“Frederic spoke to me about Hibs, he told me it was a very big club with nice people and he told me I would have no problems,” said the 20-year-old.

“He said I should sign for the club. I came over to train last week with the club and the manager was happy to bring me in on loan from Istres.

“I am happy to play for Hibs and I am really excited about coming into the first team.”

Zoubir now wants a competitive bow when Hibs face St Johnstone on 14 September.

“I was really pleased to score two goals [in a friendly against Rangers] and it has made me really excited to get started,” he added.