Hibs should go all out to sign Simon Murray, as he consistently gives his all on the pitch. Some might argue that at 32, the Ross County striker is too old, but I can give you two reasons why that’s not the case: Mixu Paatelainen and Craig Brewster.
Both were among the best strikers I had the privilege of playing with at Easter Road, and both were well into their 30s when they joined. Mixu was nearly 32 when Alex McLeish brought him back from Wolves in 1998. He scored double figures in all three of his seasons at Hibs and was the top scorer when we finished third in the top flight in his final season. Like Brewster, he was incredibly fit, energetic, and led by example—qualities I also see in Simon Murray.
It’s no surprise that Hibs want the Staggies hitman after he netted 23 goals last season. My other old club, Dundee, is also interested. In fact, any team outside the Old Firm would likely want him if given the chance. But a return to Hibs seems ideal, and age is not an issue for him—he’s as fit as a butcher’s dog.
David Gray knows him from his first spell at Hibs, and Malky Mackay knows him from Ross County. They know his character in the dressing room. Some might argue he has no sell-on value, but not all signings need that. Murray is a proven talent, someone who can deliver immediately.
This would be Hibs signing a finished product, not another Elias Melkersen, who is still a work in progress. I’ve always liked Simon. He’s strong, hardworking, sets the tone, and is great at pressing. If you want to play a high press and high tempo, he’s perfect. Fans would love him—a player who pressures defenders into mistakes, energizing the crowd.
His goal record speaks for itself. He celebrates goals passionately, unlike some players who simply walk away or ‘shush’ the crowd. Scoring 23 goals for Ross County, a team that finished in the play-offs, is incredible—it’s like scoring 40 or 45 for Celtic or Rangers. Playing for a struggling team and netting 23 goals is outstanding.
There were even suggestions of a Scotland call-up because of his performance. Murray was at Hibs earlier in his career and did well. Neil Lennon loved him. I messaged Murray in June asking if he was returning to Easter Road, but he gave a tight-lipped emoji in response, leaving me unsure. But I’m sure Hibs would welcome him back.
He might see it as his last big move. He’s at the peak of his career, having played abroad and at every level of the SPFL. He’s come back stronger from a bad ACL injury a few years ago and hasn’t been injured since.
Signing Murray wouldn’t mean the end for Dylan Vente either. Murray could actually help him. The Dutchman is a clever player who didn’t score enough last season but showed he likes to drop deep and link play. They could potentially form a strong partnership, with Murray running in behind and Vente dropping off the front line.
I like the thought of it ahead of the new season. The first real test for Gray is just three days away with a must-win League Cup group game against Elgin. Hibs need to continue their positive pre-season form, which included three wins and three clean sheets. Beating Greek champions PAOK was impressive and builds confidence.
Hibs should aim for four wins in their cup section against Elgin, Queen’s Park, Kelty, and Peterhead, which would set them up perfectly for the Premiership season.