Nick Montgomery names one Hibs difference maker after 'frustrating' season amid David Marshall injury fear

Nick Montgomery hailed natural born goalscorer Adam Le Fondre after the veteran inspired Hibs to their biggest league win of the season in his first start since October.

The Easter Road boss watched his side make it six Premiership games unbeaten to jump back into the top six with a 3-0 win over Livingston - then admitted he wanted more. Jordan Obita, Myziane Maolida and man of the match Le Fondre - who teed up the opening two goals - netted inside the opening 22 minutes to put the game to bed. And Montgomery, who revealed David Marshall was taken off at half-time as a precaution due to a stiff neck, said: “That was an enjoyable afternoon, three points, three goals and a clean sheet, a real professional performance.

“I’m probably a bit disappointed we didn’t get a couple more goals. But we have to be pleased with the result. We punished Livingston in the first half with some really good football, showing real composure and control in and around the box. I thought Adam Le Fondre today, again, with a goal and assist, showed his value.

“It’s been nice to get him back fit, because he’s been a big loss to the team through injury. He’s been frustrated with injuries. He wasn’t fit when I came in at the start and ended up missing three months of the season.

“He was a big loss, but Adam’s a top professional. His movement, and the way he brings others into play is the reason why he’s had the career he’s had. You need to appreciate his movement. He’s an out-and-out goalscorer, I’ve a lot of time for Adam, I’ve known him a long time.

“It’s nice for him to come back in at a time where we needed a few bodies. He’s producing the goals, as I know he can do. Joe Newell and Nectar Triantis were excellent in the middle of the park. And