BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
Hibernian have completed the signing of Israel international goalkeeper Ofir Marciano on a one-year loan deal.
The 26-year-old joins from FC Ashdod in his homeland and, subject to a work permit being granted, will immediately go into the squad for the Hibees’ Mouth-watering Championship opener against Falkirk on Saturday.
Marciano, who boasts 10 caps for his country and spent last term on loan at Belgian outfit Mouscron-Péruwelz, will be Neil Lennon’s new number one at Easter Road following the departures of Scottish Cup hero Conrad Logan and Mark Oxley.
The highly-rated stopper becomes the third signing of Lennon’s tenure following the arrival of ex-Raith Rovers keeper Ross Laidlaw, who he will replace between the sticks, and striker Grant Holt.
Marciano told Hibs’ official website: “I am very happy to be here. I have had a look at the stadium on Wednesday and am very excited about coming here and playing in front of the fans.
“I know the club’s ambitions. There’s an expectation after the cup win last season and I hope we can meet these and make the fans happy.”
While Marciano will undoubtedly be Hibs’ first-choice this term, Lennon will oversee him in training in the next 48 hours before deciding whether to pitch him straight into action against the Bairns.
