Wing ace Alan O'Brien can be Hibs' secret weapon, warns Mixu Paatelainen

Aug 31 2008

HIBS boss Mixu Paatelainen believes flying winger Alan O'Brien will strike fear into every SPL full-back if he keeps his impressive displays going.

The Republic of Ireland international failed to live up to expectations last term after his switch from Newcastle.

O'Brien, 23, suffered a series of injuries and never showed the form that won him five caps before moving north.

It even looked like his days at Easter Road were numbered with Paatelainen willing to let him go out on loan.

But O'Brien has fought his way back into his manager's plans and was given a standing ovation for his performance in last weekend's 3-2 win over Falkirk.

And Paatelainen said: "It's good for people to realise the players are working hard to improve their performances and Alan has done that tremendously.

"He played fantastically pre-season and has consistently improved. Hopefully he can keep that going.

"His pace excites everybody. Any full-back up against him must fear his pace - he is unbelievably quick."