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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
Sport
Alan Galindo

Steve Kean opens up on Hibs exit as academy director leaves Easter Road for manager job in Georgia

Steve Kean admits it was a 'really tough' decision to leave his role at Hibs to become first team manager at Torpedo Kutaisi.

The Easter Road Academy Director departs his position after 18 months to take up a new challenge with the Georgian side. During his period in the job the men from Leith have achieved a lot of different milestones within the Academy. The one time Blackburn Rovers boss has loved his time in the capital as he bids farewell.

He told the Hibs website: “First of all, this has been a really tough decision for me. I have absolutely loved my time with Hibs and the last 18 months.

READ MORE: Lee Johnson in Hibs 'doesn't get bigger than that' with Rangers, Celtic and Hearts on horizon

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“We have achieved a lot of different milestones within the academy during that time which the club can be proud of. From competing in Europe, winning domestic silverware and watching the lads receive First Team appearances and international call-ups has all been brilliant.

“It has been great to help the likes of Daz, and other aspiring coaches at the club, with their coaches badges too and I will miss being around the club every day. However, sometimes these opportunities come your way and you have to take them when they arise.

“I look forward to following the progress of the Academy in years to come and wish Hibs the best of luck for the future.”

Ben Kensell commented: “As a club, we would like to sincerely thank Steve Kean for the enormous impact he’s had on Hibernian FC and the development of the club’s academy.

“Through his strategic decisions, we have been able to increase the standard of academy coaching, provide specific player development plans and bridge the gap towards the first team.

“Whilst we’re very sorry and disappointed to be losing him, we understand his will to manage first team football again. We wish him all the best at Torpedo Kutaisi and for the future.”

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