Hibs top six rivals forced into pitch defence as they take defiant stance amid 'alternative venue' claims

The claims have been made as Hibs look to move them out the top six.

Hibs and Dundee are in battle for the top six.

Hibs are looking to shift them out the top six - and Dundee may be forced out their own stadium amid heavy rainfall.

The Tayside club’s Dens Park pitch has had issues this season and a recent postponement versus Rangers has sparked an SPFL investigation. It was claimed on Thursday that with Motherwell and the rearranged Rangers game to come over this Saturday and next Wednesday, Dundee may need to find an “alternative venue” if weather again forces a call-off.

Nick Montgomery’s Hibs take on St Johnstone this weekend, before heading to Motherwell pre-split. Dundee are a point above them in the league’s precious sixth spot and being forced to play home matches elsewhere at a crucial point in the season would be a big blow.

Tony Docherty’s side also take on Aberdeen at Pittodrie in their final pre-split match. The club have been forced into a statement to insists talk of moving is simply speculation right now but a further update will be made to supporters. Dundee state: “Dundee Football Club want to respond to media speculation regarding the club being forced to move Saturday’s match against Motherwell away from the Scot Foam Stadium. The club want to clarify the situation regarding this.

“As we all know there has been heavy rainfall in the Dundee area since the start of the week. The club have had a full grounds team along with consultants working on the pitch since the postponement of the Rangers match along with all the associated machinery and this will continue right up until Saturday.

“Rain covers will then be put down covering the whole pitch. The club are doing absolutely everything in its power to get Saturday’s match on and is expecting Saturday’s match to go ahead as planned.

“The club are in regular discussions with the league but no decision to move the match away from the Scot Foam Stadium has been made. The stories circulating in the media are very much media speculation. The club will provide another update to supporters later on today.”