Mark Burchill believes Alan Stubbs is the perfect man to instil a much-needed winning mentality at Hibernian after witnessing his table tennis tantrums during their years together at Celtic.
The former £4 million defender appears certain to be named Hibs boss early this week after impressing chief executive Leeann Dempster during the interview process.
It will be the 42-year-old’s first position in frontline management, but Burchill has no doubt he will be a success at Easter Road, delivering a glowing recommendation for his ex-Celtic team-mate.
Burchill, now 33, recalls how Stubbs took him “under his wing” as he emerged through the youth ranks into the Parkhead first team, and still draws upon advice and guidance given by Stubbs to this day.
While lauding his personable character, determination and approachability, perhaps the trait which had the biggest impact on his young team-mate was Stubbs’ utter disdain for losing.
“He was the most crabbit guy I have ever played with! But that is because he is an absolute winner,” said Burchill.
“He hated to lose at anything. We used to go away with Celtic and play snooker or table tennis at the hotel and he would go completely mental if he didn’t win.
“You would get an ear-bashing in training every day, but that was him trying to mould you into the right type of player, into the right type of person.
“Stubbsy was the leader in a dressing room of leaders at Celtic, and he took special care of me.
“He took me under his wing and made me really welcome in the first team, showing me what was needed to be a professional footballer and make it at the top level.”
Reports suggest Stubbs is keen to ensure his assistant with Everton’s under-21 side, David Unsworth, takes up the same role at Easter Road.
Burchill also played with Unsworth at Portsmouth during the 2004/05 campaign.
“He was a terrific player and a fantastic bloke to have in your team,” said Burchill.