By:
Mark Hendry
Hibs boss David Gray has revealed why he pulled out all the stops to sign Sligo Rovers’ Owen Elding.
Young striker Elding was snapped up by Hibees to officially become their first January signing.
It may have taken Gray and his staff a bit longer to sign their first player this winter, but Elding is considered a shrewd acquisition.
In a deal worth around €400,000, Elding joined up with his new teammates today.
Considered a top talent from League of Ireland, Elding was chased by a number of other clubs.
And yet it was a switch to Easter Road the 19-year-old decided on.
That’s why head coach Gray was so pleased to land the forward.
David Gray hails Hibs new boy Owen Elding and his scoring prowess
He reckons the former Bit O’Red marksman has already proven himself in the Premier Division.
So he should not be too worried about the step up in competition in the Scottish Premiership.
“Owen is a really exciting player,” Gray said.
“He has demonstrated his ability to score plenty of goals at a competitive level at a very young age.
“During his time in Ireland, he has proved he is capable of scoring all kinds of goals.
“And brings with him a range of fantastic attributes and a strong physical presence up front.
“He has a full pre-season under his belt, he’s got a positive, hard-working attitude.
“I am looking forward to working with him going forward.”
Elding joins Vinnie Leonard in attracting interest away from Irish football.
Kid Adam Brennan is wanted by EFL clubs as well as Shamrock Rovers while Cian Doyle is on trial with Standard Liege.
Billy O’Neill is close to joining Bristol City which is also an interesting swoop for an Irish kid.
And Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay also revealed how Elding had other offers on the table.
After signing his deal – to take him until 2030 – Elding was committed to Leith.
Hibs chief Malky Mackay on beating other clubs to Elding transfer
And former Watford and Cardiff City boss Mackay was pleased to win the race for his signature.
He added: “We’re delighted to get this deal over the line and welcome Owen to Hibernian.
“He is a really exciting young talent with a brilliant attitude.
“And we are really pleased that he saw his long-term future at Hibs, despite having other offers.
“I would like to thank the Gordon Family for their backing, Sligo Rovers for their collaboration, and Owen’s family for their support throughout the process.
“Everyone at the Club is looking forward to working with Owen.
“We’re excited to see him make his mark in Scotland.”
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