Brazilian defender Rodolfo Soares leaves Hibernians

Rodolfo Soares is no longer on the books of Hibernians FC as the Brazilian defender announced on his facebook page that he had parted ways with the Malta champions.

The 37-year-old defender had joined Hibernians in the summer and was a regular member of the Paola club during their strong run in the UEFA Conference League that saw the team reach the third qualifying round.

His performances in the European matches convinced Hibernians to keep faith in the Brazilian defender who continued to be a regular member of the team for the first part of the season.

However, the return from injury of Malta defender Kurt Shaw made it more difficult for Soares to gain more playing time with the Paolites.

And on Tuesday night, Soares announced that his second spell with the Paola club had come to a close.

“What can we say? Out of words, but it was great until it lasted,” Soares wrote on his facebook page.

“In 6 months I played 19/20 games, broke records, won titles and gained new brothers.

I will leave through the front door with my head held high and with my duty done

“I thanks everyone especially Jesmond Abela and Ranier Bezzina for believing in me again.”

Soares departure may well see Hibernians dip into the transfer market next month to try and strengthen their defence in a bid to revive their hopes of mounting a strong title challenge to runaway leaders Ħamrun Spartans.

Hibernians ended their league commitments for 2022 on a very disappointing note when they suffered a 4-0 humbling by Valletta, in a match where their defending left much to be desired.