Hibs: Kyle Magennis 'could be involved against Ross County' as Lee Johnson gives positive update

Hibs midfielder Kyle Magennis could make a shock return to action against Ross County this weekend.

The 24-year-old hasn’t kicked a ball for the Easter Road side for more than 12 months but is in the frame for inclusion in the squad to face the Staggies.

“Kyle is close,” manager Lee Johnson said as he previewed his side’s trip to Dingwall.

“He’s had five weeks of consistent training and played in three behind-closed-doors games, so we’ve got minutes into him.

“You can see the sharpness coming week on week so whether it’s from the start to be withdrawn, or to come on as an impact sub, I think he could be very, very close.

“It’s a challenge to break in too though, not only to start, but the subs have to hold their place. You want that competition and the feeling that if they don’t perform, then the next man will step in.

“If you’re doing well, then it means it’s difficult for someone to break in and get the shirt.”

In a further boost for Johnson, Rocky Bushiri, Aiden McGeady, Elias Melkersen, Demetri Mitchell, and Kevin Nisbet were all involved in the warm-up at HTC on Thursday.

The Hibs players complete their warm-up at HTC

“When we saw the faces in the warm-up today, it was really good to see. I think it gave us all a boost to be honest.

“Obviously, everyone is at different stages, because a warm-up and a passing drill doesn’t mean they’re ready to play. At the same time, it shows progression.

“We have a strong squad, and we just have to get the boys up to their maximum as quick as possible without risking any setbacks.”