Paul Hanlon has lifted the lid on his thought process when choosing to sign for Raith Rovers this summer.
The 34-year-old departed Hibernian following the conclusion of the Scottish Premiership season, ending a distinguished 17 year period at the club. He made over 550 appearances for the Easter Road outfit and had garnered significant interest in his services when it was made clear that his contract wouldn't be renewed with the Hibees.
Hanlon admits he did have offers from top-flight teams and even from overseas but it was the determination Raith showed to land him and give him the opportunity to reunite with former Hibs teammate, Lewis Stevenson, that swayed it.
"It was difficult for me to decide what I wanted to do this summer. I’d been in one place for the whole of my career and I had to suss out all my option," the experienced defender said having penned a three-year deal at Stark's Park.
"I took my time and asked myself, ‘what have I got here, in terms of offers?’. I was trying to make the best decision. I sat down with my family and people I go to for advice. We looked at what was best.
"There were a few really different options that I had to think through – while having my nightly call from (Raith technical director) John Potter asking what was happening. It was a new experience. I had one offer abroad, a few in the Championship and some in the Premiership as well."
