It’s not as if Marink Reedijk has a major problem in picking his strongest starting line-up. And tomorrow’s Premier Sports Cup semi-final may well be decided by the ‘finishers’ who come off the bench when the game gets stretched.
The return of Martin Boyle gives Hibs a great option, at least, with the veteran attacker - and, until recently, on-field captain - bringing not just experience but devilment and drive to the Reedijk formation. Starting on the right, but given freedom to roam infield, he’s too good a player to keep on the side lines for this one - even if he hasn’t always been an automatic starter.
That would allow Josh Mulligan to return to central midfield, possibly at the expense of Joe Newell, which would be extremely harsh on another former Hibs skipper, but potentially in place of Miguel Chaiwa, who has been declared fit. Which might just mean able to play through the thigh problem that forced him off in midweek.
You never know, of course. Reedijk may be dreaming up something wild for this one. Working on a sucker punch that Wouter Vrancken will never see coming. Failing that, here’s how we think Hibs will line up:
5. LB Adam Mayor
Seems to have nailed down starting place at left back. | Hibs TV - YouTube
6. CM Josh Mulligan
With Martin Boyle fit, Mulligan can drop back into central midfield. Although he was really effective in a sort of hybrid right midfield/attacking central role. | SNS Group
7. CM Miguel Chaiwa
Officially fit, so we can only take Marink Reedijk at his word. Huge boost if he starts. | SNS Group
8. RW/No. 10 Martin Boyle
He couldn't, could he? Would be just like the veteran to come back from illness with a goal to sicken Hearts.