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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Martin McMillan

SPFL side make their first signing of the summer as defensive 'leader' arrives

(Image: Jake Kirkman/Shutterstock)

Hibernian have confirmed the signing of experienced centre-back Jason Kerr on a two-year deal, following his departure from Wigan Athletic.

The 29-year-old arrives at Easter Road with a wealth of experience across both Scotland and England, having made 150 appearances for the Latics in League One and the Championship. Kerr also captained the club after being handed the armband in August 2024.

An Edinburgh native and boyhood Hibs supporter, Kerr began his career with St Johnstone, joining the Perth side in 2014. Loan spells at East Fife and Queen of the South helped his development before he established himself as a key figure at McDiarmid Park.

He went on to make 147 appearances for the Saints and famously captained Callum Davidson’s side to a historic cup double in 2021. Kerr played the full 90 minutes in the 1-0 League Cup final win over Livingston and again featured throughout the Scottish Cup final triumph against Hibs later that season.

Kerr then moved to Wigan, where he enjoyed immediate success by helping the club secure promotion in his debut campaign, edging out Rotherham United to the title by two points. His arrival comes at a crucial time for David Gray’s side, with defensive reinforcements a clear priority heading into the new season.

Rocky Bushiri suffered a suspected Achilles injury on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign, while Munashe Garananga has returned to FC Copenhagen following an injury-hit loan spell that yielded just two appearances.


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Grant Hanley, meanwhile, remains on international duty with Scotland at the World Cup and could be unavailable beyond June 25 depending on progression in the tournament. Kerr is expected to link up with his new teammates for pre-season and will provide immediate competition alongside Jack Iredale and Warren O’Hora in Hibs’ back line.

Head coach David Gray believes Kerr’s leadership and versatility will be key assets. “We’re delighted to have brought someone of Jason’s quality to the football club,” Gray said.

“His experience, quality on the ball and leadership will strengthen us defensively, and he has the capacity to play in any role across our back three.

“He’s a real leader both on and off the pitch, and a player of his experience will add a lot to the team. I’m really looking forward to working with him.”

Sporting director Malky Mackay added that Kerr had long been on the club’s radar. “We’ve been keen to add another defender to the first-team squad, and Jason is a player we have watched closely,” he said.

“He has everything you would want in a centre-back, and his experience and character will be hugely beneficial for our young players. We welcome Jason and his family to Easter Road and look forward to seeing him hit the ground running.”

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