Alan Stubbs, the Hibernian head coach, has described enduring rumours that Leigh Griffiths is to return to the club as "just speculation".
The Edinburgh club have been linked with a short-term loan deal with boyhood fan Griffths, who is currently out of favour at Celtic. The 24-year-old has had two loan moves to Hibs in the past.
However, Stubbs last night declined to confirm if he was pursuing a move for the Scotland internationalist or not. Hibs would be clear to agree a short-term 'emergency' loan with Celtic outside the transfer window, with supporters having become increasingly discomfited by the poor start which Hibs have made to the new season. They were beaten by Queen of the South in Dumfries on Saturday.
"I don't want to speak about players that are not mine. Is that me ducking the question?" asked Stubbs with a smile when the subject of a move for Griffiths was brought up ahead of Hibs' League Cup meeting with Ross County tonight. "No, I can't comment on someone else's player. Obviously, there's speculation but, as far as I'm aware, it's just speculation. I don't know where it's come from, I don't know the source.
"But, especially with it being my former club, it would be very disrespectful for me to speak about a player who's not even ours. I think if it was someone that we really thought was someone who could really make a difference, then I think the board would be very supportive. That's all I can say."
Jim McIntyre, the County manager, was more forthcoming on the challenge which is facing him as he endeavours to turn the Highland club around. A defeat on Saturday has left County pointless at the foot of the SPFL Premiership table.
"I've had Hibs watched and they have good players, capable of hurting you on their day," he said. "For one reason or another it has not quite clicked for them yet."
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