Central Coast Mariners head coach Nick Montgomery is on a five-man shortlist to become the next Hibernian manager, according to the Press Association.
Hibs have received permission from the A-League champions to hold talks with the 42-year-old former Scotland Under-21 international.
But reports in Australia claiming that Montgomery has already been selected as Lee Johnson’s successor are premature.
Hibs have spoken to two candidates and plan talks with three more this week, including Montgomery.
Former Hibs manager Neil Lennon has been among the favourites for the role and had declared himself open to discussions.
Leeds-born Montgomery initially moved to Mariners as a player in 2012 after making almost 400 appearances for Sheffield United.
He has been captain, assistant coach, youth coach and head of football at the club before taking over as head coach in August 2021.
Montgomery led Mariners to their second A-League Grand Final success with the help of a hat-trick from former Hibs striker Jason Cummings in a 6-1 triumph over Melbourne City in June. Recent Aberdeen signing James McGarry was also in the team.
Other players he has coached include Hibs full-back Lewis Miller, Kye Rowles of Hearts and former Tynecastle loan striker Garang Kuol.
