Former Swindon Town forward Harry McKirdy has left Scottish Premiership side Hibernian, bringing an end to his injury-disrupted spell at Easter Road.
The 27-year-old, who was a key figure in Swindon’s 2021-22 campaign, struggled to make an impact in Scotland and is now a free agent after his contract was terminated by mutual consent.
Struggles at Hibernian
McKirdy made 33 appearances for Hibs but failed to score during his time in Edinburgh. His stint was further complicated by a heart condition that required surgery in 2023, limiting his availability.
Hibs interim boss David Gray praised McKirdy’s efforts despite his lack of game time.
“I wish Harry nothing but the best moving forward. His time at Hibs has been difficult, but he worked hard to get back to full fitness over the summer after missing the majority of last season.
“Due to the number of options we have in the forward areas, his game-time this season has been incredibly limited, which is why this termination works best for all parties involved.”
Swindon Town Success
McKirdy’s departure comes just over two years after his standout campaign at Swindon, where he became a fan favourite. The forward enjoyed a prolific 2021-22 season, scoring 23 goals in all competitions, including four in a single match against Northampton Town.
His performances earned him a place in the League Two Team of the Season, and he played a crucial role in the club’s promotion push. McKirdy also made headlines by scoring against Premier League champions Manchester City in an FA Cup tie, showcasing his ability on the big stage.
Swindon rewarded his form with a contract extension in early 2022, but after a turbulent start to the 2022-23 campaign—where he received a three-match suspension for an incident involving a referee—he secured a move to Hibernian in September 2022.
What Next for McKirdy?
After an unsuccessful return to Swindon on loan last season, where he scored once in nine games, McKirdy will now seek a fresh opportunity. Given his proven ability in League Two, a return to the English Football League could be on the cards as clubs assess their options following the January transfer window.
Writer’s View
McKirdy’s time at Hibernian never truly got going, but his Swindon form proves he can be a game-changer at the right club. His ability to score goals and inject energy into a side makes him an attractive prospect for teams needing an attacking spark. A return to League Two or a move to a lower-end League One side seems a realistic next step for the forward.
