In different circumstances, this might be just the sort of game managers have in mind when they talk about the dreaded - by players, anyway - squad rotation. St Mirren in Paisley on a cold Wednesday night, just before you head to Hampden to take on your closest rivals in a Premier Sports Cup semi-final? Ring the changes and focus on the big one ...
Except, of course, that every game is enormous for Hibs at the moment. Three games into Marink Reedijk’s time as manager, and with zero points to show for their efforts, the Easter Road side need a victory for obvious, clear and pressing reasons.
With Martin Boyle still unwell and no-one else ready to jump off the treatment table for a league game laden with opportunity, Reedijk arguably couldn’t make many changes even if he felt like it. Not now that he’s ruled out playing Grant Hanley at centre forward as a starting tactic.
On the back of a much-improved performance in Sunday’s defeat to league leaders Celtic, there’s also a case to be made for sticking with the guys who came close to grabbing at least a point in their meeting with the champions.
Here’s how we think Hibs will line up:
9. CAM Jamie McGrath
Clever football can play anywhere across attacking midfield or drop deeper if needed. | SNS Group
10. LW/No.10 Thibault Klidje
Came close to scoring on Sunday. Reedijk likes what he brings to the position, although Rabbi Matondo and Nicky Cadden are more traditional options on the wing, | SNS
11. CF Owen Elding
Took his chance beautifully against Celtic. Leading the line to good effect despite not being a natural No. 9. Doing well to keep big Grant Hanley out of the line-up ... | SNS Group