The loan market has been an interesting avenue for Hibs. For a number of years, the signing of Leigh Griffiths aside, it wasn’t the most fruitful area for recruitment. However, in recent years it has proved to be an excellent route to bring in a range of talented individuals.
On top of that, what Hibs have done recently is very shrewd, bringing in players and giving them a platform to shine before making the deal permanent or doing enough to convince these stars to return.
Click and scroll through to see 14 players who made an indelible mark during their time at Easter Road.
1. Gary Caldwell
The former defender-cum-midfielder’s short loan spell at the start of the noughties may be forgotten but it laid the groundwork for Caldwell to return a few years later where he became a key player under Tony Mowbray. Photo: SNS Group Roddy Scott
2. Leigh Griffiths
Two loan spells. 78 appearances. 39 goals. At times watching Hibs was like watching a one-man team with Griffiths in attack. Give him the ball and there’s a good chance he would do something special. There were plenty of big moments, including a stupendous free-kick at Tynecastle and a winning goal against Celtic. Photo: SNS Group Sammy Turner
3. Martin Boyle
Few could have imagined the impact the winger would go on to have at Easter Road when he swapped Dundee for Edinburgh with Alex Harris going the other way. Boyle’s searing pace and directness was more than enough to earn a permanent move. Photo: SNS Group Sammy Turner
4. Dylan McGeouch
His best arrived once he had signed a permanent deal, but the original loan move allowed the player to showcase the midfield playmaking qualities. Vision, composure and a sharp awareness which became a key asset. Photo: SNS Group Craig Foy