Scott Allan: Hibs boss keeping close eye on Inverness progress and offers update on Jamie Murphy and Jackson Irvine

Hibs manager Jack Ross is pleased with the progress Scott Allan is making at Inverness Caledonian Thistle as the playmaker continues his return to full fitness.

Scott Allan is increasing his game-time at Inverness.

The 29-year-old moved north on loan at the end of March in search of regular first-team football as he works his way back from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart condition which he was diagnosed with last autumn and sidelined for several months.

While Ross wanted to keep Allan at Hibs for the remainder of the season, he agreed to let him join Neil McCann’s in-form Caley Jags, who are on an eight-game unbeaten run and play in the Scottish Cup last 16 against St Mirren on Friday night. Allan has started Inverness’ past three matches and his progress is being closely monitored by Ross.

"He's building up the number of minutes on the pitch,” said Ross. “He went from 60, to 65, to 70. In that sense, it's obviously working out well for him and hopefully he'll be able to return to us in a position when us and him know he's back to the place he was before the discovery of his condition.”

Ross’ men are in Scottish Cup action themselves this weekend when they travel to Stranraer on Sunday, although they will make the journey without Jamie Murphy.

The Rangers loanee is struggling with a hamstring complaint and Ross admitted his return date is still up in the air.

"Jamie won't be available for these upcoming games,” Ross said. “He's continuing to be assessed with regard to whether he plays again this season, but for these imminent matches, he won't be available.”

Ross, however, is still hopeful a deal can be struck with Jackson Irvine, whose short-term contract expires at the end of the season. The Australian internationalist has impressed for Hibs since his arrival in February and discussions over a longer stay at Easter Road have become a priority for the capital club.

"Graeme [Mathie, the club’s sporting director] is continuing to have discussions with his representatives,” Ross added. “I think they've been fairly positive so far, but nothing definitive to report.”

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