Neil Lennon: Efe Ambrose has '˜fully explained' going AWOL from Hibs

Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon has moved on from Efe Ambrose's late return for pre-season after the Nigerian defender rejoined his team-mates.

Neil Lennon believes Efe Ambrose will be fit for next Friday's Betfred Cup clash at Ross County

Lennon admitted earlier this week that he could not get in touch with his former Celtic player, who was given an extended summer break.

But Lennon, whose team host Montrose in the Betfred Cup on Saturday, has told Hibs TV: “He was due in on Monday, it’s now Thursday, so he was a couple of days late.

“We had a problem getting hold of him as he had left his phone here when he was away. He had a personal problem to deal with as well.

“But he’s back training now. Saturday will be too soon for him but he should be fit for the Ross County game and he always comes back in excellent condition, he is a fantastic athlete.

“He has given me a full explanation so that’s the matter closed.”

Lennon admits his squad will be supplemented by young players for the Easter Road game.

“It’s thin, there is no question about that but there is plenty of time left,” he said.

“Obviously the season kicks off on August 5 so we are looking to do some business between now and then.

“And we have got some good young players who can handle the first-team environment, it doesn’t faze them.

“They have been around it for a good year now and are progressing very, very well so I imagine they will feature in the games as well.”