Hibs handed boost ahead of Ross County clash as duo return to training

Hibs have been handed a boost ahead of their Scottish Premiership clash with Ross County after two key players took part in training 24 hours before the match.

Jamie Murphy takes part in training ahead of Hibs' clash with Ross County

Winger Jamie Murphy hasn’t featured since the 3-0 win against Motherwell at Fir Park on December 5 when he was forced off with a hamstring injury after 76 minutes while fellow midfielder Stevie Mallan has been sidelined since a 14-minute substitute appearance against Hamilton Accies the following week.

Mallan was named on the bench for Hibs’ 1-1 draw with Dundee United on December 19 but was forced to withdraw at the last minute with Stephen McGinn taking his spot on the bench.

The pair were among a clutch of Easter Road first-teamers who missed the match with Rangers at the weekend.

Injuries and suspensions restricted head coach Jack Ross to just seven substitutes for the trip to Ibrox on Boxing Day rather than the usual nine.

Seven first-team players missed out with Mallan, Murphy, Scott Allan, Christian Doidge, Sean Mackie, Kyle Magennis, and Ofir Marciano all sidelined.

With the midfield duo back in contention and Doidge available for selection having served a one-game suspension following his red card against St Mirren, the Hibs boss will have greater numbers at his disposal for the visit of the Staggies as the Capital club look to return to winning ways against the Dingwall outfit.

Mallan has played 18 times in all competitions this term and has scored four and laid on two for his team-mates while Murphy has bagged two goals and two assists from 12 matches in all competitons.

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