Mixu – It’s over

The Hibernian FC official site is now carrying the the news informing us that Mixu Paatelainen is no longer at the helm as Hibs’ manager. Mixu himself is quoted:

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as Manager of Hibernian Football Club. We have travelled a journey together and the Club will always hold a special place in my heart.

“However, there comes a time when a change of direction is best for both parties. I thank the Club and the players and coaching staff for their commitment and talent and I wish the supporters everything that they would wish themselves.”

It’s been very sad to see the way some Hibs fans had turned on the man. Whilst Mixu displayed several frailties in his managerial skills I felt there was little need for some of the bile and vitriol shown towards him. Mixu served the club extremely well as a player during two spells with the club when his whole-hearted displays endeared him to the Easter Road fans. His finest hour was undoubtedly his classic hat-trick against Hearts in the famous 6-2 victory a few winters back now. For me it’s not the latter that I necessarily judge him on, I remember how his selfless attitude towards the team brought on the younger players around him, when he was happy to share the knowledge and know-how of a long career with younger professionals trying to make their way in the game.

There is no doubt that Mixu was a very fine centre-forward whilst so far his managerial abilities have failed to materialise in the same way. I firmly believe that, given time, he is the kind of man and professional who will learn from his experience at Hibs and move forward again elsewhere. I genuinely hope so. For now it’s goodbye and good luck to the big Finn.

Thanks for the memories, Mixu.

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