John McGinn warns Hibs over Hanlon and Stevenson departures in tribute to 'underappreciated' duo

John McGinn has paid tribute to former Hibs teammates Lewis Stevenson and Paul Hanlon, claiming they are "underrated and underappreciated".

The Aston Villa star took time out from celebrating Unai Emery's side qualifying for the Champions League to give props to the departing Easter Road duo, who make their final home appearances for the club against Motherwell on Wednesday night. McGinn played alongside both as the Hibees ended their 114-year wait to lift the Scottish Cup against Rangers back in 2016.

And while McGinn moved on to Villa, Hanlon and Stevenson continued their careers in green and white, helping Hibs return to the top flight and European football. Stevenson is the only Hibs player to have lifted both the Scottish and League Cups and is set to make his 600th appearance for the club. And McGinn has warned the Leith outfit that the duo's loss will only hit home after they have moved on.

He shared a picture of the pair celebrating as Hibs lifted the trophy, along with the caption: "Underrated, underappreciated but most importantly 2 of the best teammates you could ever dream of having. You don't realise what you have until it's gone!"

Hanlon admitted this week that he didn't want to leave the club. he said: "This is my club, this is where I want to be. I still believe I’ve got a lot to offer in terms of playing and within the squad. I wanted to stay here but the club has made the decision that my contract is going to end and to move on.”