Hibernian ace Paul Hanlon insists he is glad Mixu Paatelainen signed Abdel Zarabi last month because he is not yet ready for a run in the side.The 18 year-old made his debut in January's Scottish Cup win over Inverness prior to David Murphy's move to Birmingham.

Hanlon also started the recent clashes with Rangers and Dundee United before making way in Wednesday's 4-2 victory over Gretna for Algeria international Zarabi.

Even though the Edinburgh-born youngster enjoyed the experience of playing competitive SPL football, he insists he has no qualms about taking a back seat as he does not want to suffer from burnout.

He said: "I kind of wanted Zarabi to come in really. I wouldn't want to be playing week in, week out, because I've seen it take its toll on other players a wee bit.

"It's happened to quite a lot of them, they have gone into the team and come out again and that will be the same with me.

"Hopefully I don't get too many games too soon. It's good to have competition with Abdel for the time being.

"I knew he was coming in before I played my first game. "I just tried to do my best, and I know I'm in the manager's thoughts for competing with him.

"I am ambitious, and I want to play as many games as I can but I know at my age not to expect to play in every game."

Hanlon insists he is not going to get carried by his run in the first team.

He added: "I think I am that type of character that I will keep my feet on the ground.

"I don't expect much to happen, I just see what happens to be honest.

"If I get more first team action I will be delighted but I am not going to get too down if I'm not in the squad."

Hanlon concedes the difference between first team and reserve football is night and day.

He added: "Everything is done at a quicker tempo. "There are harder challenges and stronger players.

"I just get on with it, really, and try and do the best I can. "I'm quite big, height-wise, and I try to use my strength as well."

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