Fenlon near Hibs appointment

Pat Fenlon appears set to fill the managerial vacancy at Hibernian.

Hibs yesterday were given permission to speak to the Bohemians boss by the Dublin club and Fenlon could be in charge of Saturday’s Clydesdale Bank Premier League clash at St Johnstone.

Fenlon has long been the bookmakers’ favourite to be installed as successor to Colin Calderwood, who was sacked as Hibs boss on November 6 following 12 wins in 49 matches and 12 months in charge.

A statement on the Dublin club’s website, bohemians.ie, read: “Bohemian FC confirms that Hibernian FC this afternoon (Wednesday, November 23) sought and was given permission to speak to Pat Fenlon about the managerial vacancy at Hibernian.”

Hibs are not commenting about the vacancy until it is filled.

Fenlon spent his entire playing career in Ireland and has managed Shelbourne, Derry City and Bohemians, whom he joined in December 2007.

The 42-year-old has won the League of Ireland twice and the Football Association of Ireland Cup twice.

He was linked with Dundee United before the appointment of Peter Houston as boss, but now cash-strapped Bohemians appear to have allowed Fenlon to discuss a move to Edinburgh.

Billy Brown is currently in caretaker charge of Hibs and led them to a 1-1 draw with Kilmarnock last Saturday.

Former Hearts assistant Brown on Tuesday admitted he may not be in charge for the fixture.

“I know there may possibly be someone here in charge by the end of the week, so I’m well aware of that,” Brown told Hibernian TV.