Lewis Stevenson keen to take more responsibility for Hibernian

Lewis Stevenson admits he has been a “follower” throughout his career but the stand-in Hibernian captain is happy to see his leadership role bear fruit.

Stevenson has been wearing the armband in the absence of the injured Paul Hanlon and manager Shaun Maloney could not have been happier with his contribution as part of the cinch Premiership’s youngest starting XI in recent weeks.

The 34-year-old is one of Scottish football’s most unassuming characters but Maloney has encouraged him to let his actions speak for themselves.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s visit of cinch Premiership leaders Celtic, Stevenson said: “I am not usually one for taking responsibility. My whole career I have been a follower. He (Maloney) told me not to change my personality just do what I do and lead on the pitch.

“People lead in different ways. I am never going to be a screamer and shouter. It seems to be going all right, the boys seem to be taking to it just now as it is but I’m sure other boys will be back soon.

“I have tried to (lead by example). I am sure I have not been 100 per cent clean cut in the past but, look, I should know the game by now. I try to do things that the manager says and take that on to the pitch and see where it takes us.”

Stevenson has been vital for Maloney in filling a number of positions on the field as well as the captain’s role – he has played midfield, left-back and centre-back in recent weeks.

“We have got a lot of injury problems just now so I’m sure I wouldn’t be playing in all these positions if everybody was fit,” Stevenson said.

“But I am enjoying being back playing and playing in different formations keeps you fresh. I am still learning things even at this age.”

Maloney has instilled a more possession-based game,