Arnold hits back at Hibernian job links

Graham Arnold has reaffirmed his commitment to the Socceroos after dismissing reports linking him with the vacant manager role at Scottish Premier League club Hibernian.

Graham Arnold has denied reports linking him to the Hibernian report. Source: Getty Images

A report by ESPN on Monday claimed Arnold had expressed interest in taking over at Easter Road after the suspension of Hibs coach Neil Lennon last Friday. 

However, the 55-year-old has firmly refuted media speculation that he had thrown his hat in the ring for the Hibernian job and insisted he was committed to the Socceroos and Olyroos.

"I am surprised to learn of the speculation,” Arnold said in an FFA media statement 

“We have just started a great four-year journey with the Socceroos and the Australian U23 National Team.”

“I saw a lot of growth in our team and many individuals at the AFC Asian Cup and while we were disappointed not to go further in the competition I am extremely proud of our players and staff."

Reports of Arnold's rumoured interest in the Hibs job angered Socceroos fans with the news coming only 24 hours after Australia's disappointing quarter-final exit at the hands of the UAE.

Arnold, who is currently on holidays, is due back in Sydney next month to prepare the Olyroos for their upcoming run of fixtures.

“I will be back in Australia soon and my full focus will be on the upcoming AFC U23 Championship qualifiers in Cambodia in March, and following that our 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign and the AFC U23 Championship to be held in Thailand next January,” Arnold said