Collins quits Hibs

Hibernian manager John Collins has resigned from his role at Easter Road, sources close to him have told PA Sport.

The former Scotland midfielder was appointed on October 31, 2006, and led Hibs to their CIS Insurance Cup victory in March.

He has seen a host of key players leave the club for big money during his spell in charge at Hibernian, including Scott Brown, Kevin Thomson, Steven Whittaker and Chris Killen.

Despite having to rebuild his squad on a small budget, Hibernian started this season strongly and are currently fifth in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.

Collins, 39, has been linked with the Scotland job which became vacant when Alex McLeish quit to join Birmingham last month.

However a Scottish Football Association spokesman stressed his resignation from Hibernian was entirely unconnected to the national team post.