How Hibs could line up to face Hearts in semi-final - and the big calls Jack Ross may have to make

At first glance, Jack Ross would appear to have a straightforward task in selecting his starting team and subs for Saturday’s Scottish Cup semi-final showdown with Hearts.

Jack Ross will need a big performance from Josh Doig and has a decision to make regarding his left midfielder

A closer look suggests a handful of dilemmas that could have a big impact on the match in terms of team selection, formation, and those on the bench who may be required to turn the game. In line with the new IFAB rules, both teams will be permitted to make up to five substitutions, which adds another layer of intrigue.

Formation – three or four at the back?

Jack Ross has almost exclusively used the 4-4-2 double six formation this season, with one or two exceptions when he opted for a 3-5-2.

While a lot hinges on the Hearts set-up (likely a 4-2-3-1), it’s hard to imagine major changes for a game of such magnitude. The team has looked comfortable in a 4-4-2 but perhaps more crucially, Ross will almost certainly be without Lewis Stevenson who he has subbed on for Josh Doig in both league games in which he played a 3-5-2.

Three at the back would also likely play into Hearts’ hands with their wide men seeking to exploit the half spaces between the wing-backs and centre-backs.

The likely starting team can very easily be shuffled into a 3-5-2 if required so Ross will have both options available anyway.

Who gets the nod at left midfield?

Martin Boyle will almost certainly start on the right but left midfield may require extra thought. Stevie Mallan did a decent job covering the position against Kilmarnock, while Jamie Gullan and Drey Wright both filled the position during the Betfred Cup spell.

Wright has been more effective in a central role and if Jamie Murphy is fit to start then he surely gets the nod.

He impressed in the same position against St Mirren in Paisley last month and his experience could be key on Saturday, especially against the wily Michael Smith.

The subs who can make a difference

Assuming that the strongest available starting XI picks itself – Marciano, P McGinn, Porteous, Hanlon, Doig, Boyle, Gogic, Newell, Murphy, Nisbet, Doidge – thoughts turn to those who could make an impact from the bench.

The Hibs subs are likely to be Barnes, Gray, McGregor, Mackie, Hallberg, Magennis, Mallan, Wright, and Gullan. This would cover every position and free up Stephen McGinn to be the eyes in the stand.

Assuming there are no injuries Hallberg, Magennis, Mallan, Wright, and Gullan look most likely to make an appearance.

Hallberg’s versatility has seen him deployed as a midfielder, right-back, and centre-forward in recent weeks while Mallan’s set-pieces can be crucial.

Magennis and Wright could energise a tiring midfield, and Gullan is capable of playing wide left or up top.

The men who need to show up

While the whole team needs to turn up there are a handful of players who can make a telling difference. Joe Newell’s vision in midfield will be required to unlock the Hearts defence while Martin Boyle’s ammunition from the flank could be vital. Alex Gogic will likely be attached to Jamie Walker for the entire time the playmaker is in the G42 postcode, and Josh Doig will have the chance to showcase his talents on a very big stage.

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