Lee Johnson issues stark warning to Hibs players over 'mediocre performances' and opens up on work permit frustrations

Aidan Nesbitt’s header shortly before the interval gave the Bairns all three points despite the Capital club dominating the second 45 and the Easter Road boss admits he learned a lot about his players, and what not to do the next time.

A trip to Bonnyrigg Rose, the SPFL new boys, is a potential banana-skin of a cup meeting. Robbie Horn’s side have already seen off Clyde and Johnson knows his side will have to be on it from the first whistle to avoid a re-run of the Falkirk fiasco.

"We should have won that game quite comfortably with the chances we had but it was too little, too late as we didn't give ourselves enough minutes and enough space to capitalise given the fact that they had something to get hold of.

"I'm learning a lot, quickly. I'm learning about the level, I'm learning about my players, I'm learning about the partnerships, the opposition."

Speaking of learning about his players, Johnson made four changes at the interval in a bid to turn the game in Hibs’ favour. Call it ruthless, call it tactics, or call it a Hail Mary play, but it certainly sent a message to his squad.

"It showed an element of intent, and it without doubt improved the second half,” he offers.

"Decisions have to be made to win football matches. Once the players cross the white line it's up to them.

"They know what we're after and we didn't do enough, simple as that.

"Although we like to think we're a club that gives opportunity, unfortunately the lads have got to win football matches and you can very quickly find yourself out of the fray with one or two average to mediocre performances."

It’s not just about throwing players under the bus, though. Johnson holds his hands up for his own errors.

"When you watch the video back, it's never as