Ex-Norwich City striker Grant Holt completes Hibernian move
Former Norwich City striker Grant Holt has sealed a move to Scottish Championship club Hibernian. Picture: PA - Credit: PA Wire/Press Association Images
Norwich City's Hall of Famer Grant Holt aims to prove he can still cut it after signing a one-year deal with Scottish FA Cup winners Hibernian.
The free agent completed his move to Easter Road, subject to international clearance, to become head coach Neil Lennon's first signing since taking over the Scottish Championship promotion hopefuls.
The 35-year-old Holt finished last season on-loan at former club Rochdale but was released by Wigan at the start of the summer.
'I spoke to the gaffer and I said that I'm not here just to sit and help the young lads along. I've come to play football,' he told Hibs official television channel. 'I've been out a long time with my knee, I've come back and I'm fit and I want to score goals and enjoy football – that's the reason I'm here. I knew quite a lot really (about Scottish football), when you're from Carlisle on the border then you predominantly pick up the Scottish papers more than the English ones.'
Lennon views Holt's capture as a signal of intent as he looks to guide Hibernian back into the Scottish top flight.
'We're delighted to be able to secure a player of Grant's quality,' he said. 'He'll bring good experience to the group but he's here to play and has plenty to contribute on the field.
'The fact that he has chosen to come here over other clubs who were interested in him speaks volumes about his commitment and desire to do well here.
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'He's exactly the type of player we were looking for and I am sure he'll prove to be very valuable to the team.
'He is a player I like and I have known him for a while. He has great experience and a physical presence that we probably lacked a bit last year. He knows his way around a football pitch and he has great enthusiasm still for the game.
'People will look at his age, but he hasn't played much football over the last few years, whether that be through injury or manager's choice. So I think, at 35, he has got plenty in him yet. He feels that as well.'
Holt led Norwich to the League One title and Championship promotion before notching 15 Premier League goals in his first season in the top flight during a memorable spell at Carrow Road.
