Junior Hoilett sees age as no barrier as he aims to catch the eye with Hibernian

Junior Hoilett does not believe the fact he is now 34 will hinder his prospects of becoming a key man for Hibernian.

The former Blackburn, QPR, Cardiff and Reading winger joined Hibs on a one-year contract in the summer after a short-term stint at William Hill Premiership rivals Aberdeen last season.

Hoilett is now fully recovered from an injury sustained on international duty with Canada earlier this summer, and he feels his age should not have a diminishing impact on his ability to shine for Hibs.

“For me, age is just a number,” he said. “As long as you’re enjoying it and you have the passion for it to go out every day in training and work hard to progress and get better as a player, I think that’s the main thing.

“I feel good right now and I’m just trying to remain injury-free to be out on the pitch as much as possible.”

Hoilett, who made an eye-catching debut as a second-half substitute in the recent 2-0 win over St Johnstone, is determined to play as much as possible this season.

“I want to play week in and week out. I didn’t come here to just make up numbers, I came here to play and help the team progress. So, for me, of course you want to play week in, week out.

“Everybody wants to play from the start. I’m a competitor and everybody wants to be on the pitch and play as much as they want. so that’s just natural for any footballer.”

Hoilett has enjoyed his time at Hibs so far and hopes he can be a positive influence on the squad.

“It’s been good,” he said. “The staff, everybody around the building made me feel at home and settle in quickly.

“There’s a great group on and off the field so I’m enjoying my time here and can’t wait to crack on and help the team get more wins.

“We have a great squad, a lot of young talent. It’s an exciting squad and I’m here to help as much as I can if it’s coming off the bench, starting or whatever to make a difference to help the team achieve the goals and progress day in and day out.”

Hoilett has been joined by another 34-year-old former Premier League attacker after Hibs signed Dwight Gayle a fortnight ago. The former Crystal Palace and Newcastle striker is set to be in the squad for the first time for Sunday’s trip to Rangers.

“He’s a great person to have in the building, to help the youngsters as well and I’m sure he’ll make a massive contribution with his experience in front of goal,” said Hoilett.

“He’s an experienced striker, he’s scored at the highest level and I’m sure he’ll bring that contribution to the team.”