In the summer it seemed the only way was out for Jair Tavares at Hibs. Now, under Nick Montgomery, the winger has been handed a lifeline at Easter Road.
Former manager Lee Johnson had warned the 22-year-old was set for an exit from Edinburgh in the summer having dropped out of the first-team fold.
He had said: “I think it’s time for Jair to move on potentially on loan or a permanent. That will shake up the squad a bit.
"He’s not quite infiltrated the team as much as I’d have liked and got the minutes.
However, Tavares returned to matchday action for the club in the 2-2 draw with Kilmarnock as he climbed off the bench to make a rare appearance.
While only making a five-minute cameo, Montgomery offered a positive review on Tavares as he handed an opportunity to the player off the back of an impressive week in training for the former Benfica B player.
He explained: “It’s a fresh start for everybody. To be honest, I’m not interested in what went on before.
“He’s a very talented boy and, from what I’ve seen in training this week, he’s got a good attitude. You see some of the touches he had, he’s a very good player.
“And right now he’s got another opportunity. He’s taken it this week in training, that was why he’s on the bench – and he got on to show it with some good touches.
"Again, I’m not really interested in what has gone on before. I’m only looking forward and I’m really, really happy with this squad.”
