Hibs have today revealed that young winger Emmanuel Johnson has joined MLS side Austin FC.
The 19-year-old will stay with Austin for the full MLS campaign, which ends in December, when they will have the option to buy the player for an already agreed "six figure fee".
Johnson joined the Hibees from Barcelona's Stateside academy this time last year, and was immeadiately loaned to feeder club Charleston Battery.
After a good spell with the USL side, he was recalled after qualifying for UK work permit and spent the first part of this season on loan with another of our feeder clubs, FC Edinburgh.
Speaking to the official club website, Hibs DV boss Steve Kean said:
“This is a great opportunity for EJ to flourish in a competitive league in his home nation.
“EJ is a good example of us bringing in a young player, nurturing their talent through the Development Team and loan moves, like FC Edinburgh, and helping them to forge a career in the game.
“This loan will make him a better player that can either help us in the future or support the club financially if they choose to take the option.
“I have no doubt that EJ will grasp this opportunity with both hands and wish him all the best with Austin FC.”
HIBS-MAD VIEW:
Good luck to EJ, he has impressed us when we have seen him play, and a spell back home may help him.
Hibs still have the option to keep him, so let's hope he does well in the MLS.
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