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Bamba out of Hibs squad

Image: Bamba: Left out

Hibernian defender Sol Bamba's future is in the balance after being omitted from their European squad.

Hughes takes tough stance on Ivorian defender

Hibernian defender Sol Bamba's future is in the balance after being omitted from their European squad. The Ivory Coast centre-back only reported back to Easter Road on Monday after failing to show following the World Cup. Manager John Hughes has punished the 25-year-old by leaving him out of the squad for Thursday's Europa League tie against Slovenian side NK Maribor. Bamba was given an extended break despite not playing in any of the Elephants' World Cup group games, but was due to come back in time for the club's pre-season tour of Holland.

No script

He failed to show however and Hughes publicly stated his disappointment at the player's decision to take further time off, resulting in the Hibs boss' decision. "There is no script with Sol," said Hughes. "He is here but he will not travel with the Hibs party to face Maribor. "I really don't want any distractions before this tie and I am here to talk about the European game. Our entire focus is on preparing for Europe. "But if Sol feels he can come back and prepare for just two days for a big European match then I feel he is mistaken."

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