Hibs star's dad is a Doctor Who director who told him to look to Easter Road future instead of going back in time

Hibs starlet Rudi Molotnikov’s dad is used to indulging in fantasy having been a director on the hugely popular TV series Doctor Who.

But Justin was deadly serious when he told the 18-year-old to chase his dream of becoming a first team player at Easter Road. That focus appears to have paid off after Molotnikov scored and starred in Tuesday’s 5-1 Premier Sports Cup victory over Queen’s Park. Making his full competitive debut at Easter Road, the night could not have gone any better for the youngster.

But Molotnikov, who was farmed out to Stirling Albion for the second half of last term, admits he was unsure of what the future held during the summer after becoming too old for the club’s under-18 team. He said: “A loan was always an option but my dad really pushed me towards the better option - staying here and pushing myself to be a starting player for Hibs. He really helped me with that.

“When my time in the 18s finished, I did have that moment where you think: ‘Right, what do I do know?’ I’m happy with how it’s gone so far. Did my dad’s influence help with any doubts? Yes and no.

"I mean, every player has to believe in themselves. But you can’t be too big-headed, can’t think beyond what is happening, look too far into the future. You have to just stay level-headed and do what you can, be in the moment. I think I’ve done that.”

Hibs boss David Gray singled out the teenager for praise after the thumping victory over the Spiders. Molotnikov also started last weekend’s 5-0 thrashing over Elgin City. And the attacker, who notched the third on the stroke of half-time with a composed finish, is thrilled by how his campaign has started.

He added: “It was amazing to play the other night, I couldn’t have asked for it to go any