It was a season to forget for Hibernian, and that is a huge understatement. After finishing second-from-bottom last term, and suffering a cup-final humiliation to Hearts, things have to get better this season, right?

Tom Hall, of the Scottish Football Blog, certainly hopes so. He has provided his thoughts on how Pat Fenlon can turn things around.

How would you rate last season on a scale of one to ten?

We salvaged a one by avoiding relegation.

How is the squad shaping up for this season? Are there any areas that you'd like to see strengthened?

Ben Williams looks like he could be a sound solution to recent goalkeeping woes, and the permanent return of James McPake is an important boost after the relationship he forged with the fans last season. But I'd like Pat Fenlon to have more options in the squad, particularly in midfield and attack.

Are there any of the new additions to the squad that you are particularly looking forward to seeing?

Partick Thistle fans seem to thinks Hibs have done well signing Paul Cairney, and from what I've seen so far he looks strong in the tackle with a willingness to take some responsibility in attack. That sort of player has been lacking at Easter Road of late. Leigh Griffiths, hopefully without distractions this season, will need to take on a lot of responsibility for scoring goals.

What would constitute a successful season for Hibs this season? Where are the club aiming for?

After the disappointments of the last two seasons we should be looking for a season of transition and progress. Challenging for a top six spot would be an improvement. I've no idea where the club is aiming for but it should really be a complete overhaul on and off the pitch to deliver sustained improvement.

Hibs are famed for their production line of young players. Are there any that we should be looking out for in particular next season?

A production line that has stuttered of late. I hope some young players get a chance and with a thin squad some should be looking to feature and grab their chance. Ross Caldwell should feature from the bench. And Sam Stanton certainly has the name to be a success at Hibs.

If you were in charge and could sign any player from any era of football, who would you take?

The elegance of Pat Stanton, the creativity of Gordon Smith, the goals of Lawrie Reilly. Hibs need them all. But perhaps the heart of Erich Schaedler represents what's been most obviously missing at a club that has accepted defeat too easily of late.

You can follow Tom Hall on Twitter and visit the Scottish Football Blog here.