CAPE TOWN – Scottish striker Simon Murray will hope to reignite his career in South Africa after joining Wits on Monday.
The Clever Boys confirmed the arrival of the 26-year-old Murray from Scottish Premiership club Hibernian.
Murray has been battling to get into the first team at Hibs, and manager Neil Lennon recently told the Edinburgh News that it was best for the club and the player that he moved to Wits.
“I didn’t feel Simon would play that much – he wasn’t really at the forefront of our minds in terms of how we want to play this season,” Lennon said.
“We brought him in for nothing. We got a good offer for him which we feel is beneficial for the club and him.
“He realises he’d have found it difficult to get a regular spot. He quite fancies the challenge of playing in a different environment and culture and financially I think it’s quite rewarding for him as well.”
Murray first made his name at Dundee United between 2015 and 2017, but he moved to Hibernian once his home-town club were relegated and unable to get back up the next season.
He had to go on loan back to Dundee halfway through the campaign, but will hope to make an impact under Gavin Hunt.
“We are pleased to announce the signing of 26 year old Simon Murray from Scottish Premiership team Hibernian FC. Welcome to the Clever Boys! #Nakanjani @HibsOfficial @simonmurrayy” Wits tweeted on Monday.
Murray arrives at just the right time after James Keene (SuperSport United) and Eleazar Rodgers (Free State Stars) left Wits.
He will compete for a starting spot with Lehlohonolo Majoro and Hellings Mhango, and is one of a number of signings Hunt has made in a bid to take his team back to the top, having ended in a lowly 13th last season.
The Students also only scored 27 goals.
Former Cape Town City captain Robyn Johannes and ex-Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Brighton Mhlongo are among the new faces at Wits.
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