Boost for Hibs as key first-team pair take part in training and step up injury comeback

Hibs pair Kevin Nisbet and Rocky Bushiri were involved in training at HTC today as the pair stepped up their return to action.

The 25-year-old striker sustained a cruciate ligament injury during a goalless Scottish Premiership draw with Celtic in February but has been making good progress as he targets a return to action before the end of the calendar year.

Speaking ahead of the 3-1 victory over Aberdeen, manager Lee Johnson stressed the importance of not rushing Nisbet back into action, saying: “We are acting with a level of precaution for him but as every box gets ticked we can start progressing.”

The Easter Road boss hinted that Nisbet would be reintroduced to group training after the international break.

"The target is to get him back as quickly as possible but it's got to be right,” Johnson added.

Nisbet was joined by Belgian defender Bushiri, who has been sidelined for the past four weeks after picking up an ankle injury during training.

Hibs confirmed in late August that the 22-year-old would be ruled out for ‘over two months’ but the former Norwich City youngster also appears to be making progress in his comeback bid.

Neither player is likely to be involved in contact training to minimise the risk of further damage but both appear to be making good progress, which will come as a relief to Johnson who is yet to have a fully fit squad to work with.

Elias Melkersen and Demi Mitchell also took part in training with Johnson expected to give a squad update during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Ross County.