Top line summary

  • New signings a 'big positive'.
  • No panic over current form
  • Expecting a tough test at Kilmarnock

Jordan Obita spoke to the media ahead of Saturday's trip to Kilmarnock. Here's everything the Hibs defender had to say.

How are the new boys settling in?

“They’re all good lads. Technically gifted players. Obviously they will need a bit of time to gel and get used to their surroundings. But in training they’ve been really good.

Did you know Luke before he came here?

“I have known Luke, I came up against him once or twice when he was at QPR. He is a very good midfield player, good technically and he likes to get on the ball. So that’s a positive for us because that’s how we like to play.”

With all the bodies missing it must just be nice to see people coming through the door?

“Of course, every transfer window you know there’s going to be new faces. I’m glad we have brought in top quality players that can help us in the second half of the season.”

What have you made of Emiliano so far?

“You could see Emiliano’s ability straight away. He almost scored as soon as he came on. He is a gifted player, has played Premier League and Championship and has a few promotions under his belt. I would have played against him when he was at Bournemouth and Brentford. So I knew we were getting a good player here. He has been a bit quiet, as is normal when someone comes into a new club. But give him a few weeks and I’m sure he’ll come out his shell.”

All the new signings seem to be guys with a point to prove...

“You always want people coming in who are hungry to do well. Whether it’s for themselves or the team. So it’s a big positive to have them in.”

You've been here half a season now, what have you made of the league?

“It’s probably quite similar to what I’ve known. I would say there’s a bit more respect here. Teams aren’t just in your face all the time or trying to press from the first minute. They do respect each other because there’s probably a bit more quality than you’d expect.”

When discover you’d be centre half against Rangers?

“I found out probably a day or two before the game. I knew Paul wasn’t training and then I got the shout that I might be playing so I was fully prepared for it. I’m not really a nervous person before a game, I always back myself to do well. It’s just up to me to perform. I still got forward. Especially in the first half.

READ MORE: Jimmy Jeggo exit confirmed as Hibs move quickly to sign new midfielder

"As soon as I had a bit of space I thought why not go for it? It gives us an extra body in the wider area to pass to or create a chance to cross. Sometimes I just do it off my own back.”

What is the league target now? Is it still third place?

“Whatever is reachable. If we can reach third then perfect but for us it’s to get into the European places so we can be back in Europe again next year.”

Given how quickly the picture can change in this league, is it important not to panic over current form?

“Just before Christmas if we won at St Johnstone we could have gone third. Now we have dropped back but if we can get a couple of good results and climb back up the table then we can put pressure on those above us.”

How tough a task will it be at Rugby Park?

“It’s not always easy with the conditions, the plastic pitch which we’re not used to. They play on it every home game but we can’t use that as an excuse because it’s two teams who have to play on the day on the same pitch. We have good quality in the team and have added more quality. We go there full of confidence even though we’ve not been on a great run.”