New arrivals Junior Hoilett and Nicky Cadden have been described as deals that will “alleviate some of the fears” of Hibs supporters.
The pair became the Edinburgh club’s sixth and seventh summer signings on Tuesday.
Cadden joins his twin brother at the club after a two-year spell at English League One side Barnsley, while Hoilett arrived at Easter Road following a short stint with Aberdeen – scoring two and assisting nine in 15 appearances with the Dons.
Mark Atkinson, sports editor of The Scotsman, told the BBC’s Scottish Football Podcast that Cadden and Hoilett are “important signings for Hibs, given they desperately need additions to that squad”.
He added: “They’re both experienced players; Cadden is 27, Hoilett is 34.
“Both have played in British football and Scottish football. They’re the profile that Hibs require, they’re going down a different route in terms of their transfers this year, making sure that they sign players that are not deemed such a risk in this league.
“Hibs also have an issue on the left-hand side. Jordan Obita is the only senior left-back at the club. They’ve had to rely on Rudi Molotnikov, an 18-year-old who’s played well on the left wing, but is naturally a central midfielder or attacking midfielder.
“Hoilett and Cadden both play on the left. Hoilett’s very much an out-and-out forward player. Cadden can play at left-back or further up the pitch. They’re addressing a problem area of the team.”
Rookie boss David Gray has had a hectic summer bringing in new recruits, which includes two goalkeepers and welcoming back Mykola Kuharevich on loan, but Hibs fans remain restless following Sunday’s dismal opening-day defeat to St Mirren.
“It’s no surprise to see a reaction from Hibs given the horrendous start to the Premiership campaign,” Atkinson said. “It wasn’t just the result, it was also the performance that was very underwhelming.
“A lot of Hibs fans are concerned about the direction of the club right now and are concerned about the strength of the squad, so those two players will definitely help alleviate some of those fears.”
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