Steve Archibald throws hat into Hibs ring as former Easter Road striker makes late pitch for shock dugout return

Steve Archibald wants to be the next manager of Hibs.

The Barcelona legend has thrown his hat into the ring to succeed Shaun Maloney at Easter Road.

But Hibs owner Ron Gordon is on the brink of appointing Lee Johnson.

Archibald starred on the pitch for the capital club during a spell in the 80s and wants to return in the dugout.

But his bid seems destined to fail with Hibs finalising a deal for former Hearts player Johnson.

Johnson - a former Sunderland and Bristol City boss – met and impressed members of the Easter Road board this week – and wants to bring in long-term No.2 Jamie McAllister as part of his coaching team.

Ex-Lincoln City gaffer Michael Appleton and former Malmo boss Jon Dahl Tomasson are also on the shortlist but Johnson is the preferred choice to succeed Shaun Maloney.

Archibald tried to buy Airdrie in the early 2000s. He was granted preferred bidder status and installed himself as manager but ultimately failed to conclude the deal.