Mixu: Kerr not for cull

Aug 3 2008 By Gavin Berry

RAGING Mixu Paatelainen last night slammed reports Brian Kerr will lead a Hibs exodus after being told he's not good enough for the club.

The furious Hibees boss admitted in midweek a group of players were heading for the exit and Kerr - not involved against Middlesbrough - was widely reported to be one of them.

But Mixu raged: "I'm deeply disappointed at reports saying I've told Brian he's not good enough for this club.

"That is a total lie. It's not fair to the player because Brian is not in that category. He is a fantastic footballer and a superb professional.

"I'd never say he's not good enough for this club - I wouldn't say that about any player. I also saw guys like Merouane Zemmama on the list. That is a joke. I'm surprised Steven Fletcher isn't on it!

"We want to cut back because we have too big a squad. It's not beneficial for a player's career to sit in the stand all season."

Paatelainen wants to strengthen his attack and introduced a French trialist in yesterday's 3-2 defeat to Boro - but refused to reveal his name.

Mixu said: "He's exciting. He can do a lot better but he's only trained for 10 days and hasn't played any games."