Why Owen Bevan has returned to parent club Bournemouth

The 20-year-old was one of two centre-backs signed during the January window along with Nectar Triantis but a loan spell with Cheltenham Town had been cut short when he sustained a muscle injury. He had returned to the Cherries at the start of the calendar year before Hibs and Bournemouth agreed a loan deal until the end of the campaign after Nick Montgomery had watched Bevan in action and been impressed by his performances for the Robins. 

Hibs are fairly well stocked in central defence with Triantis, Will Fish, Paul Hanlon, and Rocky Bushiri all fit and available to play, with Jacob Blaney a fifth option if required, although Bevan was seen as a possible option at right-back as well due to his versatility.

Montgomery said on signing Bevan last month: "Our relationship with Bournemouth allowed us to look closely at their young players, and Owen was one that stood out instantly. Having watched him during his loan spell at Cheltenham earlier this season, I was really keen to try to bring him in for the second half of this season.

“Owen is a young centre-back with great attributes and a fantastic attitude. He can play either side as a centre-back and at right-back, so he provides us with great depth and competition for places."

But the Wales Under-21 internationalist won't feature for the Capital club and has returned south to continue his rehab with Bournemouth.

A statement from Hibs read: "We can confirm that Owen Bevan has returned to AFC Bournemouth following a further injury.

"The young centre-half joined Hibs on loan on transfer deadline day with a plan to link up with Nick Montgomery’s first-team squad on Monday, February 5, 2024.

"Unfortunately, Owen had an injury setback during his rehabilitation programme, which means he will remain with the Cherries until the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

"Everyone at Hibs wishes Owen all the best with his recovery."