We'll Be Laughing With Mixu

Jan 13 2008 By Euan Mclean

HIBS star Chris Hogg has heard all about Mixu Paatelainen's legendary wind-ups during his playing days at Easter Road.

Now he reckons the new boss will lift the jaded squad's spirits by putting laughter back into the dressing-room.

Hogg admits morale has suffered as the Leith side slipped to a dreadful run of eight games without a win and they badly need a lift to haul themselves out of the slump.

So the defender was delighted when a groundsman told him about the days when Mixu was one of the biggest characters at the club during his two spells at Hibees.

Chris said: "I've heard stories of Mixu's time here and I know he was a leader on the pitch as well as a goalscorer.

"He will bring leadership to the club plus a lot of character and enthusiasm for the gamewhich can only be a positive thing.

"Tam McCourt, the groundsman, is a character himself and always talks about the old days, laughs he used to have with certain players and what they got up to.

"I've heard a few stories about the gaffer being a wind-up merchant but I wouldn't want to divulge that information!

"Everyone knows he's a good character and hopefully his mood and personality can lift the place because there's no doubt we needed a boost after recent results.

"For all the players it's a clean slate. Everyone is out to impress which is good for the team with strong competition for places.

"I've only heard good things about the manager and I'm sure a lot of the fans can relate to him and are happy he has been appointed.

"It's a positive move and can take the club forward. The last few weeks have been painful. It's horrible when you are not picking up results.

"It's easy at times like that for people to moan but we need to stand up and be counted."