Football
Exclusive: Free Agent Liam Henderson Eyes Hibs Return After Serie A Exit
Former Celtic midfielder Liam Henderson is eyeing a move back to Scotland after a decade in Italy. Free agent Henderson is open to offers from Hibernian, Bristol City, and Derby County. The midfielder has experience in Scottish football and is looking for a new challenge after his time abroad.
Verona v Empoli - Serie A by Image Photo Agency | Getty Images
Free agent Liam Henderson wants a move back to Scotland – and Hibernian are set to offer him a lifeline, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.
The 29-year-old midfielder has spent the last decade playing in Italy, but is now a free agent after FC Empoli surprisingly didn’t off him a new deal.
And our sources have learnt Henderson would welcome a return to Scotland having previously played for Hibs and Hearts on loan, as well as Celtic at the start his career.
The former Scotland Under-21 international played 41 games last season for Empoli in the Italian Serie A.
However, the Azzuri Empolesi were not forthcoming with a new contract and is it is understood Livingston-born Henderson would consider a move back home.
Championship sides Bristol City and Derby County are also believed to be interested in securing Henderson’s signature, with the player open to a new challenge having enjoyed his time abroad since a move as an initial move as a teenager.
Hibs finished third in the Scottish Premiership last season and manager David Gray wants to strengthen this summer as the club look to cut the gap on champions Celtic and Rangers.
Rangers finished 13 points ahead of Hibs last season, with Celtic a staggering 28 points clear of Gray’s side.
HIBS LOAN SPELL
Henderson enjoyed a 32-game loan spell with Hibs back during the 2015-16 season and chipped in with five goals.
And he is no stranger to Scottish football after his three seasons with Celtic before his move to Bari in 2018.
Henderson represented Scotland at Under-16, 17,19 and 21 level, but never made the leap to the senior international side despite a decent youth career.
Ever since he has played his football in Italy, but now Hibs want to entice the midfielder back to Scotland.
And they know they are now likely to face competition from both the Robins and Rams for the Henderson’ signature.
Neil has been a journalist for longer than he'd care to remember, having written for national newspapers and respected publications for over 25 years. For the last three years he has worked freelance for BBC Sport, working on the production desk as a sub-editor and also as a writer, covering a whole range of sports.