The long-term absence of Kieron Bowie remains a thorn in the side of this Hibs squad. Any team missing their major summer signing can hardly be said to have enjoyed good luck on the injury front.
Even allowing for Bowie’s long battle back from a devastating hamstring injury, however, Hibs aren’t in terrible shape. As they prepare to welcome Motherwell to Easter Road tomorrow, in fact, rookie head coach David Gray may find himself spoiled for choice.
Against a Motherwell side who have won four of their last five games, Hibs are still considered slight favourites with the odds makers. But a lot may depend on the availability of two key men – club captain Joe Newell and Martin Boyle.
Both missed last weekend’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox, with Socceroos winger Boyle recovering from a hand/wrist operation and Newell not yet ready after surgery on a double hernia. Having travelled to Govan on the back of their first league win of the season, a comfortable 2-0 home victory over St Johnstone that feels like an age ago now, Gray’s men were beginning to look like a more cohesive and co-ordinated unit.
They played well in Sunday’s defeat, too. How they fare in this game may depend on who is available – to start and to make an impact from the bench.
With Motherwell not short of injury problems themselves, let’s take a look at the ins, outs, doubts and maybes for tomorrow’s contest:
1. DOUBT - Martin Boyle
Operation on his gammy right hand and wrist went very well. Has a removable cast that SHOULD allow him to play. But he hasn't trained - so don't expect to see him. | SNS Group
2. OUT - Jair Tavares (Motherwell)
On loan from Hibs, so winger can't play tomorrow. | SNS Group
3. DOUBT - Shane Blaney (Motherwell)
Back in training but unlikely to be risked as he recovers from a medial ligament tear. | SNS Group
4. AVAILABLE - Joe Newell
Skipper has taken longer than expected to recover from a double hernia op. Has been back on the grass and in full contact training. | SNS Group