Hibernian midfielder Stephane Omeonga has insisted that incurring the wrath of indignant Italian side Cosenza and being subjected to online abuse was a small price to pay after securing a loan return to Easter Road.
The former Belgium Under-21 international had been on the verge of joining the Serie B side last Thursday following a disappointing temporary stint back in his homeland with Cercle Brugge.
However, a phone call from Hibs sporting director Graeme Mathie just minutes before he met Cosenza officials for signing talks immediately led to a late change of heart.
And just 24 hours later, Hibs were delighted to announce the re-signing of the Genoa player.
Omeonga, however, admits Cosenza were less than impressed about his u-turn.
“I was at the club in Italy,” said Omeonga, who has joined on a deal until the end of the season.
“I was so close to signing for them – they [Cosenza] were pushing me to sign.
“I couldn’t have been happier when Graeme Mathie called me. It was a surprise to be honest, but a really nice one.
“I had to wait for a while and I was nervous in case the move didn’t happen.
“When I told them that I had changed my mind and was going to Hibs, they were pretty angry. People were saying bad things about me on social media and stuff but that’s just football.
“The minute the chance to come back here was on the table it was impossible to turn down.”
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