Ewan Henderson starting to impress at Hibernian after Celtic first-team struggles

By Euan Davidson

February 23, 2022

Ewan Henderson has clearly been trying to show Celtic what they’re missing, after finding some form and minutes at Hibernian under Shaun Maloney.

While Henderson won’t be allowed to play against Celtic when the Hoops visit Easter Road on Sunday, he’s been coming onto a game in Leith. Playing in his preferred role as a number 10, Henderson provided an assist against Arbroath, and has averaged 1.8 key passes for Hibs thus far [WhoScored?].

It’s encouraging stuff for the Celtic Academy graduate, and Shaun Maloney sounds pleased with the youngster’s performances. Henderson seemed a decent squad fit for Celtic under Ange Postecoglou, but he was limited to just one really impactful display, scoring a goal against Real Betis in the Europa League.

Instead, he’s impressing former Celtic midfielder Shaun Maloney, whose Hibernian side have themselves found a bit of form in recent games.

Maloney said [Edinburgh Evening News]: “He was really good [against Ross County]; I just thought he was starting to tire a bit [when I subbed him off].

“I think he’s getting better. Since I came in he’s really built up substitute appearances; every time he came on he was creating a chance – chances we should have scored.

“He had a couple of chances on Saturday and that’s what he has to bring: goals and assists.

“So far, I’m really pleased with Ewan. He’s turning into a really important player for us in the attacking third.”

Ewan Henderson beginning to show Hibernian promise after Celtic exit

Technically, Henderson is still contracted to Celtic, but once his initial loan ends with Hibernian, he’ll join the Leith side permanently.

It’s a good move for him. Edinburgh-born, Henderson’s own brother Liam, now playing for Empoli in Serie A, enjoyed a fruitful spell with the Hibees. It seems like a soft landing after being out the picture at Parkhead, and Henderson seems determined to make the most of it.

A creative talent, Brendan Rodgers seemed to like what Henderson brought to the table while he was the Celtic manager. However, Neil Lennon and then Ange Postecoglou didn’t seem to have a place for the attacking midfielder in their sides.

Nonetheless, it’s great to see him starting to do well elsewhere. While he’ll be frustrated he can’t get on the pitch against Celtic, Dundee, Motherwell and St Johnstone games should represent opportunities for the Celtic Academy graduate.

Read more: Bodo/Glimt manager offers lavish praise for Celtic boss Postecoglou