Mixu comes home

[OwenWright]

Hibernian have finally chosen Mixu Paatelainen as the club's new manager to take over from departed John Collins.

The former Hibs striker, who had two playing spells at Easter Road, will be presented at a 4pm press conference in Edinburgh. The 40-year-old joins from Finnish side TPS Turku. He had a previous spell as a manager in Scotland with Cowdenbeath.

Paatelainen beat former Preston manager Paul Simpson to the post. Simpson was interviewed but was informed on Wednesday he had missed out. Caretaker boss Tommy Craig was also touted as a contender after John Collins resigned last month in frustration at the lack of funds available to buy players.



The new manager, who also played for Dundee United, Aberdeen, Bolton, Wolves, St Johnstone and St Mirren, is relishing the challenge ahead.

"I am very happy to take up this opportunity," Paatelainen said. "Everyone knows of my great affection for this club, and I believe my desire to see teams play exciting, attacking and intelligent football fits well with the club's philosophy.

"I will bring energy, hard-work and leadership to the squad. I am also committed to working with players, as individuals and groups, to help them to improve. "If I can help one player improve, the team is better. If I can help all players improve, we are much better."

Capped 70 times by Finland, Paatelainen helped Turku finish third in the Veikkausliiga last year. Compensation for his release has been agreed.

His two playing stints with Hibernian were from 1998-2001 and 2002-2003, either side of a spell with French side Strasbourg.

Paatelainen may know some of the Hibernian players who have come through the youth set-up, having been involved in coaching of the club's youngsters during his second playing spell.

Hibernian chairman Rod Petrie said: "We are delighted Mixu has agreed to take up the challenge and opportunity of managing Hibernian. "We are convinced that he was the strongest candidate, and he impressed us a great deal during his interview. "He has a clear vision of the type of football he wants to play, has strong ideas on man-management, and demonstrates excellent leadership qualities. I am sure he will further enhance his growing reputation."

The Hibeesbounce would like to offer our best wishes to Mixu.
The manager of our team, Hibernian FC.