Ofir Marciano set to return for Hibs after missing Aberdeen clash on compassionate grounds

Ofir Marciano is likely to make his final Easter Road appearance today against Celtic.

Ofir Marciano is set to return between the sticks for Hibs

The Israeli goalkeeper missed the midweek victory at Aberdeen that secured third place on compassionate grounds after the flight from Germany carrying his pregnant wife Shelly and son Sun was turned back en route to Tel Aviv as a result of the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip.

After his role as an unused substitute for the Scottish Cup semi-final win against Dundee United with Matt Macey keeping his place in goal, expectations were that the 31-year-old would return to the starting XI for the penultimate league game against Pittodrie.

However, Macey continued between the sticks in the Granite City, keeping a clean sheet as Hibs won 1-0 to seal third place and a record eleventh away win of the campaign.

Marciano with wife Shelly and son Sun

But an update on Shelly’s Instagram account revealed the reason why Marciano had been a surprise omission.

Posting a photo of herself and Sun, she wrote: “Thanks to everyone for all the messages and concern.

"Our flight yesterday from Frankfurt to Israel was about to land but turned back to Germany due to a massive rocket attack in the Tel Aviv area.

"We are currently still in Germany and hope to arrive on another flight tomorrow morning. My phone is full with messages but we are still getting organised and checking all the things to be ready for tomorrow, and obviously we are very tired and exhausted from this situation.

"Thank you all! Hoping for quieter and better days.”

She paid tribute to husband Marciano who had been providing support from a distance, adding: “Thank you my love, for all the support and energy you give us in this crazy situation.

"Number one husband and father – we miss you already.”

While Marciano is expected to line up at Easter Road, he could be joined by some of the Capital club’s fringe stars for what is essentially a dead-rubber game for both teams.

Lewis Stevenson could line up at left-back in place of Josh Doig while Kyle Magennis and Jamie Murphy will be pushing for starts after substitute appearances against the Dons.

Drey Wright and youngster Stevie Bradley could also feature for the hosts.

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