Scott Allan believes the fact that Hibernian head coach Neil Lennon has made him a better player is another reason to return to Easter Road this summer. 

The 26-year-old’s second stint at the Leith outfit has come to an end after the midfielder returned to Hibs on loan from Celtic in January.

Allan scored three goals in 12 starts to help Lennon’s side clinch a fourth-place finish in their first campaign back in the Ladbrokes Premiership and admits the former Celtic boss has helped improve his game.

Read more: Neil Lennon: Tom Rogic signing shows Celtic mean business​

The playmaker has not hidden his desire to prolong his stay in Edinburgh and is hoping both Hibs and his parent club can reach an agreement over the final 12 months of his contract with the Parkhead club.

Allan said: “I’ve loved every minute here and I think I’ve become a better player since I’ve been back the second time. 

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“I’ve added goals to my game and work rate, all those types of things under the gaffer and it’s really been beneficial for me. 

“The fans have taken to me again and that’s a big plus.

“Staying here would be my preferred option. It’s not just down to me, the clubs will need to come to an agreement. 

“I’ll need to go back to Celtic for pre-season training and then take it from there.

Read more: Neil Lennon: Tom Rogic signing shows Celtic mean business​

“This is a place close to my heart. I’m really comfortable here. Hopefully we can get something sorted in summer.”

Allan earned a move to Celtic from Hibs in summer 2015 after enjoying a stand-out season under then manager Alan Stubbs.

And the Glasgow-born player insists Hibs have made vast improvements on and off the pitch since then.

He added: “People forget that Hibs were playing in the Championship last season because they’ve gone about their business brilliantly. 

“As a club we’re moving in the right direction.”