Rudi doesn't have to be Hibs bad word any more as Molotnikov can be next breakthrough star - Tam McManus

I'll tread carefully here because singing the praises of a midfielder called Rudi could get you in serious bother down Easter Road way in recent years. But thankfully the mention of this particular young man in Leith’s boozers is likely to get you a high five rather than a bunch of fives after two games where he’s played a big part in Hibs hitting five.

Rudi Molotnikov is showing just why he’s so highly rated by the club after starting the 5-0 win at Elgin and Tuesday’s 5-1 win against Queen’s Park. Without overstating it the Scotland U19 international was brilliant against Queen’s, really positive. As soon as he got the ball it was about looking forward, passing forward, running forward.

There was nothing negative in his game at all. No coming out and playing back the way. He got at the full back and centre backs and not just that but Molotnikov looks strong, wiry and not easily pushed around.

The finish for his first ever Hibs goal was superb because there was so much still to be done when he went through with the keeper.

I loved his post match interview where he said he’d been dreaming of that moment for years and that it was perfect coming in front of his watching family in the stands.

That’s what supporters want to hear and his would have been the name on the punters’ lips leaving the ground. It’s exciting and that’s the way it should be.

There’s not been enough young players came through and sustained it in the first team at Hibs in recent years.

Other than Josh Doig, Ryan Porteous and Josh Campbell nobody has had a lasting impact. Guys like Oli Shaw and Jamie Gullan looked promising but then faded away and moved on. Gray will still bring in three, four or five players in the window, I’m sure.

But Molotnikov has