WeKnowSFA

15th Jun2010

Hibs go Dutch to make a mark on Europe

by WeKnowSFA

Edwin de Graaf to bring experience to Yogi’s boys

Hibs have announced the signing of Dutch midfielder Edwin de Graaf on a two year contract, tying him to the Easter Road club until June 2012.

The player moves to Leith after spending the past four years at NAC Breda, where he was captain of the club.

John Hughes raved about the box to box qualities of the midfielder and there is no doubt that this type of player is highly coveted in any team or league. Whether a 30 year old more suited to the more sedate pace of the Dutch Eredivise can bring the same qualities to the SPL remains to be seen.

This is in no way a criticism of the player and all kudos to himself and Hibs for making this move happen but it has to be said that the two leagues have a large difference in style. If de Graaf can settle in quickly and bring his qualities to Hibs, the Easter Road faithful are in for a treat.

His Uefa Cup experience will also be crucial to a Hibs side that are hoping to battle through the Europa League qualifying rounds to seal a place in the tournament proper. Spirit and creative guile were the watchwords for Hibs at their peak last season but there is no doubt a little bit of steel and use of the “black arts” of European football could take Hibs further than they managed this season.

Sealing a European place was the least that Hibs deserved for their efforts in the first half of the SPL campaign so hopefully Hibs can recapture that early season form and make their mark on the Europa League.