Hibs take on Ross County in Dingwall tomorrow, with the visitors looking to continue the extremely minor, terribly tentative revival sparked by last weekend’s thumping win over St Johnstone in Perth. Plunged into the bottom six of the Scottish Premiership at the split, Nick Montgomery’s managed to shake off the psychological blow of falling short by running riot at McDiarmid Park.
Can they repeat that intensity in their four remaining ‘meaningless’ games? That’s the challenge they face in the Highlands tomorrow. At least, and in contrast to much of the season, Montgomery has a reasonable squad to choose from.
Dylan Vente made his return to action - and to scoring - as a late substitute last weekend, the Dutchman showing that he’s finally recovered after almost two months out with an extremely frustrating ankle injury. While Adam Le Fondre looked sharp against the Saints, you’d have to think that Vente will be in contention to start at the apex of a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Elsewhere in the starting XI, the likely return of Will Fish means super sub Paul Hanlon - the club captain who scored after coming on as an early sub last week - will return to the bench. Don’t expect major changes, then, as Monty looks to build momentum.
Here’s how we think Hibs will line up:
5. LB Jordan Obita
The experienced English defender is one of the first names on the team sheet. | SNS Group
6. RW Martin Boyle
Socceroos star was excellent in Perth. Will he add a goal to his tally tomorrow? | SNS Group
7. CM Nathan Moriah-Welsh
The only permanent signing in January, he's proving to be a solid addition to midfield. | SNS Group
8. CM Joe Newell
Regular on-field skipper continues to shine in a struggling team. | SNS Group