Lee Johnson in shock Kevin Nisbet Hibs admission as new boss promises to 'smash down doors'

Lee Johnson can’t wait to work with Kevin Nisbet at Hibs after admitting he’s such a fan he made four or five “illegal approaches” to the striker in previous jobs.

Nisbet is recovering from a cruciate tear sustained against Celtic three months ago and has earmarked a return to action by the World Cup break in November.

New boss Johnson was keen on signing the Scotland international when he was manager at Sunderland.

And he has held his hands up to desperate attempts to prize the striker, who has struck 27 goals in two seasons in Leith, during his spell as boss at the Stadium of Light.

Hibs last night confirmed Paul McGinn has signed a new one-year extension after triggering a clause in his contract.

But Johnson is desperate to hold onto his younger assets too including Nisbet and Josh Doig.

He said: “I probably illegally approached Kevin Nisbet four or five times!

“Kevin at his best he is a top player and one I've wanted to get hold of for a number of years.

"I think everyone's had a good look at Josh Doig too, a bright, up-and-coming player who now seems to be really experienced despite only being 20.

“It’s a real challenge to keep hold of players like that at a club like this because there is a lot of interest from big clubs.

“We are maybe short of players in their prime so it’s important we develop our assets.”

Johnson is desperate to get to work, insisting he’s ready to “smash down the door” with his high-tempo approach - and wants to make his mark right from the off in the Premier Sports Cup.

The 40-year-old won the competition as a player with Kilmarnock a decade ago and still holds that Hampden shock over Celtic as the best day of his footballing life.

Johnson’s reign at Easter Road gets underway for real