Former Norwich City captain Grant Hanley is embarking on a new chapter in his football career following his transfer to Hibernian, bringing to a close a challenging period as a free agent. The 33-year-old defender had been on the lookout for a new club since leaving Birmingham City at the end of last season, after a brief stint that began with his departure from Carrow Road in January.
Hanley has signed a two-year contract with Hibernian and expressed his excitement about finding a new home in Edinburgh. "I am delighted," Hanley said. "It has been a different time in my career for me personally – being a free agent – so I had a bit of time to think about it all, but I am over the moon to get it done and to be here."
The Scotland international, who has earned 62 caps for his country, acknowledged that this period of uncertainty was unfamiliar territory. "I had never been in that situation before, so for me it was about being patient and waiting until the right opportunity came up. Thankfully I managed to get that here," he shared.
A significant factor in Hanley's decision to join Hibernian was the warm reception he received from the club and its supporters. "A big part of my decision, in this period of my career, was to get a real feel for the club and the people within it. I have been properly welcomed and made to feel properly part of it all. All those conversations really helped make my mind up." Read more about Norwich City Seal Sleeve Sponsorship with Willy's Pies.
As he begins this new journey, Hanley is keen to make a positive impact both on and off the pitch. "The stage of my career that I am at, I am looking for a really positive experience, and I can see where the direction of this club is going."
Having spent the entirety of his senior career in England, the prospect of competing in Scotland's Premiership excites him. "It’ll be another totally different challenge – one that is different from anything I have experienced before," he stated during an interview with Hibs TV. "But that was another thing that attracted me to playing up here. I know the size of the club, I know what is expected of me, I know how difficult the league is and the quality within it, so I am really looking forward to the challenge."
With a wealth of experience, Hanley aims to leave a lasting impression at Hibernian. "I have played a lot of games so I will bring a bit of experience first and foremost. Hopefully I can bring that both on and off the pitch and help the team to be successful."
As Hanley embraces this new role, Norwich City supporters will undoubtedly extend their best wishes as he embarks on this exciting venture in Edinburgh.