Ivan Sproule has backed Lee Johnson to turn things around at Hibs.
The Easter Road gaffer suffered a slump going into the World Cup shutdown that ended with the capital club dropping from third to eighth in the Scottish Premiership table. A run of six defeats in the last seven games has put some pressure on the management team but former favourite Sproule - who played with the duo at Bristol City for years - says they have the 'character' to get over this difficult period.
He reckons the players need to stand up and be counted for and take responsibility as they look to recapture their best form and aim for the top six and European football. They face a big period on the return to action starting at Ibrox against Rangers - who will have a new manager in the door - followed up by Livingston, Celtic and Hearts.
READ MORE: Kevin Nisbet will be like new Hibs signing and looks 'absolutely brilliant' says Chris Cadden
Sign up to Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox
Speaking to Edinburgh Evening News, he said: “I played four years with Lee Johnson and Jamie McAllister at Bristol City so I know them well. Hibs are going through a difficult period at the minute and it’s something they’re going to have to get themselves out of after the World Cup.
“They are positive, strong boys who have the character to get out of this period. They have been on the wrong end of some fine margins in games but we all know football, you’re judged on one thing at five o’clock on a Saturday and that’s winning.
“They have a group of players who need to stand up and take responsibility. I’m not knocking the players who are here – I’ve been in that dressing-room at Hibs when things aren’t going well myself – but you have to take responsibility and get yourself out of it.
"Lee and Jamie have both been around football long enough to understand that, so they will know the next run of games [against Rangers, Celtic, Livingston, and Hearts] is massive for them. They have the characteristics to turn it around, but they also need the players to make it happen. You need leaders on the pitch, everyone pulling together.”
READ NEXT:
- Hibs star Paul Hanlon reveals Martin Boyle chat after his Australia World Cup blow
- Hibs issued 'Scottish Watford' warning over Lee Johnson as Alan Stubbs calls for 'bigger picture'
- Hearts and Hibs in fixture reshuffle as Jambos set for Friday night under the lights at Tynecastle
