Scottish outfit Hibernian are close to appointing former Sunderland and Bristol City boss Lee Johnson as their new manager.

According to Sky Sports, Hibs are within 48 hours of announcing Johnson as their new coach.

Johnson spent six months as a player at Hibs' fierce rivals Hearts back in 2006, but that is not thought to be a factor in the hiring process.

He will take the place of Shaun Maloney, who was fired after only four months in charge.

Johnson is only 40, but has experience as a manager in England, with his most recent role a 13-month stint at Sunderland in League One.

Hibs endured a poor season last term, failing to reach the top six in the Scottish Premiership and bowing out of the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup.