If getting hammered by Hearts hasn’t sealed the fate of Hibs boss Lee Johnson, then some comments about the contract of Rangers-linked Ryan Porteous might do the trick.
The stone-faced Hibees boss is a man under mounting pressure after his side were humiliated by Edinburgh rivals Hearts at Tynecastle to make it eight defeats in ten matches.
There are already plenty calling for the former Bristol City and Sunderland manager’s head following the result but Lee Johnson certainly wasn’t for taking all the responsibility.
As the Englishman answered questions on the situation involving Ryan Porteous – who was suspended v Hearts and may have played his final game at Easter Road – Lee Johnson was in snarling mood.
The Hibs boss took aim at the club’s hierarchy for not handling Porteous’ contract situation and whilst Rangers remain an unlikely destination, the comments will have plenty grabbing the popcorn.
“I can tell you that there is interest in Ryan, I don’t know the specifics,” said Johnson.
“There’s a few clubs that will be interested in Ryan, he’s a very good player. But it sums up the poor historic decisions at the football club.
“Ryan should’ve had a four or five year contract about two-and-a-half years ago. How has that not happened?
“I get frustrated because I care about it, I turn up every day, the staff give their all, there are good people at the football club and the fans deserve more than they saw particularly in that first half.”
Lee Johnson fumes at Ryan Porteous’ contract situation
Rangers fans were left astounded back in December when the club was being linked to Ryan Porteous given the historic bad blood between the Ibrox side and the Hibs defender.
But by the player’s own admission his future likely lies outside of Scotland with the likes of Serie A side Udinese now reportedly heading the pack [BBC Scotland].
This follows the likes of Aaron Hickey (Bologna), Josh Doig (Verona) and Lewis Ferguson (Bologna) opting to move to Italy.
Whilst we’re not sure Lee Johnson will be following him to the Continent, something tells us the Hibs boss will be joining Ryan Porteous in leaving Easter Road in the coming days.
Meanwhile, another Scotland international being linked to Rangers is apparently interesting other clubs.
