Hibernian today confirmed that Souleymane Bamba had failed to attend Hibernian's Dutch training camp on 19 July 2010, the date by which the Club had required him to re-join the squad for pre-season training.

Following Ivory Coast's elimination from the World Cup on 25 June 2010, and a request from the player for extended leave, Manager John Hughes agreed that the player could meet up with the squad in Holland on 19 July 2010 and this was communicated to the player's representatives.

Bamba's return on this date would have provided a 10 day period to allow the player to integrate fully with his team-mates as the squad prepared for the opening Europa League match on 29 July 2010.

Manager John Hughes said today, "I'm disappointed that Sol has chosen not to join up with the squad. I'm sure that many people will feel let down by his failure to attend the training camp. We have shown Sol a great deal of flexibility over the last year and it's frustrating that we will now enter the European arena without one of our experienced players."

"Having said that, the boys who are here have demonstrated fantastic commitment so far and we are totally focused on our opening match next Thursday. I'm delighted to be working with a great bunch of professionals, and the spirit in the camp is brilliant - I can assure everyone that nothing will be allowed to distract us as we prepare for this vital first match."

Following Bamba's failure to attend as requested on 19 July, the Club has received no communication from the player. The player's representatives have also been unable to provide clarity on when Bamba is expected to return to training.

The Club will continue in its efforts to make contact with the player to bring the situation to a conclusion.