Hibs captain's role up for grabs, says boss Calderwood

Chris Hogg began his second season as skipper, but as the long-serving defender began to fall out of favour at Easter Road, Kevin McBride, Derek Riordan, Liam Miller, Ian Murray and Paul Hanlon have all led the side out.

Hanlon is set to do so again tomorrow as Hibs aim for a fourth successive win with Inverness Caledonian Thistle in the Capital.

Murray, who has captained the side most frequently recently, is again sidelined through suspension.

But today Calderwood disclosed a permanent decision on who will be Hibs' figurehead won't be made until before the start of next season.

He said: "We haven't really settled on a new club captain, we will sit down before the start of next season and appoint one.

"We have Ian Murray in situ at the moment with his experience and love for the club and Paul Hanlon has taken the captain's armband when he's not been available."

Riordan, McBride and Miller could well not be at Easter Road by the time that decision is made, the trio part of the large group of players who are out-of-contract at the end of this season but Calderwood has listed the attributes he is seeking.

He told Hibernian TV: "I'm looking for someone who has a good affinity with the squad and the respect of his fellow players. Authority in the dressing room was something that Chris Hogg had and Ian has it as well. Some people don't actually relish the opportunity of being a captain.

"There's not too much extra that happens, players just look to you in the dressing room on occasions either to voice their own opinion or the opinion of the dressing room. It's an important place."

While professing to be relaxed at having Riordan, McBride, Miller and 11 others running down their contracts, Calderwood insisted there was still time for those in that situation to convince him they deserve new deals with Hibs.

He said: "Certain decisions have been made but players can still change my mind. Performances dictate decisions and choices - that works both ways.

"Good performances alert other clubs to the obvious value of some of our players. Everyone is aware of the situation and they understand it. Players can still play their way into my thoughts.

"Everyone has a chance to perform here before the end of the season and possibly change my mind."

While many are in that situation, former Bolton Wanderers striker Ricardo Vaz Te is seeking to catch Calderwood's eye, the former Portuguese Under-21 star having spent the past week on trial with Hibs.

Today Calderwood, who confirmed Graham Stack will retain his place in goal for tomorrow's match against Caley after his return to action following a long injury lay-off coincided with three wins, revealed Vaz Te will remain at Easter Road into next week.

He said: "He's been training here and came to the St Mirren game to watch us. We've been able to have a good look at him. He had the pedigree to go into the Bolton team and he's done quite well.

"I know he is enjoying his time here, he quite likes the environment. He's played in one bounce game and we'll try to get something organised for next week."

Meanwhile, Hibs have frozen season ticket prices and added several incentives including an extended interest free payment plan and free Cup top up with early purchases.

Full details can be obtained from the club's website.