Hibs have suffered a devastating blow with the news that Kevin McGeady has sustained a season-ending knee injury. The 36-year-old will be out for at least four months and could be sidelined for up to six months.

McGeady's injury is especially disappointing as he had just returned to the squad after a five-month absence due to a similar knee issue. Additionally, it comes amid an array of other key player injuries such as Martin Boyle, Kyle Magennis and Kevin Nisbet.

McGeady’s injury

McGeady, a highly-regarded Republic of Ireland international, had been on an incredible run at Easter Road before suffering a hamstring injury against Kilmarnock. The former Celtic winger has made 14 appearances this season and scored four goals and provided three assists.

Hibs have seen him score seven goals in eight games this season, including an amazing goal against Rangers. His non-penalty goals per 90 minutes rate of 1.43 is the highest in the league.

His versatility makes him a strong candidate for the Scotland national team. He is adept at using both feet and weapons, looking to outpace defenders and reach the byline, as well as possessing excellent delivery skills.

Nisbet had been linked with a move to Millwall, where he could have joined the top players in the English Championship. However, Nisbet has decided against making the switch and is now expected to return home with Hibs' squad.

Nisbet’s return

Hibs striker Kevin Nisbet is expected to return to the squad this week after missing all of February with a knee injury sustained when he was caught by Carl Starfelt during a 0-0 draw against Celtic.

Easter Road FC have been without their top scorer since January. His impressive form, however, has provided them with some hope that he might receive a Scotland call-up next month.

His high non-penalty xG rate can only be sustained if his teammates are also contributing. It's a two-way street: not just how well players capitalize on opportunities but also how well they are positioned within the attack.

Nisbet has achieved an impressive 1.43 non-penalty xG rate so far this season, placing him atop the league table. Whether this will continue is another matter entirely, but it certainly gives him plenty of cause for thought.

Lee Johnson’s decision

Lee Johnson has declared Aiden McGeady out for the rest of this season due to a knee issue. The former Celtic winger was one of Hibs' marquee signings from last summer's transfer window and has been one of their best players this term, scoring five goals and providing 13 assists in 15 appearances.

Lee Johnson has been under increased strain after Hibs suffered a 3-0 defeat against city rivals Hearts in the Edinburgh derby. A ninth defeat in 11 crucial Premiership games and eighth loss without a victory have left fans feeling increasingly disillusioned at their club.

Hibs boss David Flitcroft insists he will continue to take criticism in stride, yet the pressure will be mounting on him. His squad is packed with talent but Easter Road are currently facing an injury crisis which could derail their title hopes.

Transfer news

As the transfer window remains open, more players are beginning to leave their current schools and search for a new residence. Notable names in this space include Arizona's Jalen Singer, Oklahoma's Nick Evers and Florida State's Sam Cypress - all of whom entered through the portal this past weekend.

These players all played an integral role in their schools' successes and will provide inspiration to the upcoming crop of college football programs. Here is a look at the biggest transfers to enter the portal so far this year, listed by date of entry.

Michigan State is already without Malik Hall, who suffered a minor toe injury last month and won't be able to practice with the Spartans until after Thanksgiving. But Hall should be back before their intense non-conference schedule begins and Akins should also be fully healthy by then.

Source: yallashoot