Hibs make double swoop

Hibernian FC have bolstered their ranks with the signings of 26 year old Englishman Joe Keenan and 21 year old Frenchman Steven Thicot, the club’s website reported today. Both players bring versatility to the table for manager Mixu Paatelainen, each with both defensive and midfield experience.

Keenan’s signing comes at the end of a successful trial period with the Easter Road team. Keenan spent last season with A-League side Melbourne Victory, with whom he made 12 appearances last season. Keenan began his professional career with Chelsea, making two senior appearances for the English Premier League giants. He went on to play for VC Westerlo of the Belgian league, Brentford, and Eredivisie side Willem II before joining Melbourne last year.

Thicot, a member of the 2004 French U-17 European Championship winning side, had been with Nantes from 2003 until being released at the end of the 2007-08 season. He made 3 appearances for Sedan on loan during the 2006-07 season during the team’s short-lived Ligue 1 run. Thicot has also spent the pre-season on loan at Hibs, appearing as a substitute in the club’s 6-0 friendly loss to Barcelona on July 24th.