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Daily Record
Daily Record
Sport
Robbie Copeland

Aaron Hickey sets Bologna tongues wagging with Spezia display as former Hearts star gets another role change

Scotland hopeful Aaron Hickey was one of Bologna's top performers as he switched back to his familiar role on Monday night.

And the former Hearts star earned plenty of praise as he was involved at both ends of the pitch in their 2-1 victory over Spezia.

Hickey has caught the eye in Serie A this season after establishing himself as one of the first names on the Bologna teamsheet.

He has started all but one of the league games he's been available for and has recently been covering at right wing-back - fuelling speculation that's where he could play for under Steve Clarke if a call-up arrives.

However he switched back to the left with the experienced Lorenzo Di Silvestre back in the team and didn't miss a beat.

Scotland have good options in both full-back areas now with Andy Robertson and Kieran Tierney on one side while Nathan Patterson is established as the starting right-back ahead of next month's Ukraine clash.

But Hickey showed he can do either as he struck up a fruitful understanding with Musa Barrow in front of him.

He caught the eye with his surging attacking runs and dangerous crosses but his defensive nous was on display too.

Bologna switched to a back four for the final 20 minutes, with Hickey tucking into a regular full-back role - something he has rarely had to do since joining the Italian side..

His team were in control for long spells and found the winner late on when a Nicola Sansone cross found Marko Arnautovic.

And those watching were impressed with Hickey as the commentary team noted that he "came to life" in the second half.

He also caught the eye on social media as one fan wrote: "How good has Aaron Hickey been this second half?"

And another remarked: "Every time I watch Aaron Hickey, he seems to get better. Becoming a serious player."

There were even comparisons with a certain Kieran Tierney as one viewer tweeted: "This Scottish lad playing for Bologna is pretty good. Literally a one for one Tierney regen."

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