Lee Johnson has spoken for the first time since being sacked by Hibernian.

The Englishman was recently dismissed from the Easter Road club after just over a year in charge.

Hibs currently sit bottom of the table after losing their first three games in the Scottish Premiership this season.

And Johnson had nothing but good things to say in his statement about his time at the club, paying tribute to former owner Ron Gordon, who passed away earlier this year.

He said, "I would like to thank the Gordon family for giving me the opportunity to manage this historic club, with a special mention to the late Ron Gordon, who was a great loss to us all.

"I have loved every minute of my time in Edinburgh and in the Scottish Premiership, which is an intense and challenging league but extremely fulfilling for a manager to be involved in. I have felt welcome all around the city.

"I would also like to thank the staff, who I worked closely with throughout my time at Hibs, who are passionate about the club and are always supportive of the players and backroom staff.

"I have met some friends for life! CEO Ben Kensell is a great leader and we enjoyed an excellent working relationship.

"Last season was a transitional season for Hibs, but I was so proud of the successes we enjoyed together as a group.

"Beating Hearts and Celtic at Easter Road, after a number of times of asking, were wonderful moments. Experiencing the fans’ rendition of ‘Sunshine on Leith’ after those big results was fantastic!"

READ MORE: Graham Arnold rejects chance to become next Hibs manager

Meanwhile, Graham Arnold has turned down the chance to become Hibs manager, it has been revealed.

The Australia national team head coach admitted that he has rejected an offer from the club

Neil Lennon and Central Coast Mariners boss Nick Montgomery are the two frontrunners for the position.

David Gray remains in temporary charge ahead of this weekend's game at Aberdeen, following on from last night's defeat at Aston Villa.

But he won't be replaced by Arnold, who insists he was flattered to receive the interest, but still has unfinished business with the Socceroos.

He told Keep Up: “I have to say it was an honour that Hibs rang me and offered me the job but I’ve got a job to do here. I will say that I love coaching my nation and I feel that I have a great job.

"For me, it’s all about Mexico and getting ourselves ready for that, and developing and helping the boys here in Australia."