Hibernian boss Jack Ross is in confident mood ahead of his side’s clash with Rangers on Friday evening.
That’s despite his side failing to register a shot on target in their 2-0 defeat at Celtic Park this weekend.
“We knew coming into these two fixtures [against Celtic and Rangers] how big a challenge they would be,” said Ross, as quoted by the Daily Record. “Both teams have been relentless this season, so consistent. Not only are they getting good results. They are playing well.”
“Friday is a different dynamic as we are playing at home. If we can take the pluses from this and do certain elements of the game better, we’ve got a strong belief we can win.”
Meanwhile, the Hibees boss confirmed that goalkeeper, Ofir Marciano, is a doubt to face the Gers after being substituted off against Celtic with a calf problem: “We will assess it tomorrow morning and see how he is.”
Verdict
There’s no doubt that Ross has improved things at Hibs since taking over from Paul Heckingbottom.
Often playing with two up front, their approach has been more positive, and the goals have flowed as a result. They have eight in their last three fixtures at Easter Road, including a 3-0 win over Aberdeen last time out.
When you factor in that Alfredo Morelos will miss the game through suspension, it’s understandable that Ross senses an opportunity.
Yet, given their away record this season, the fixture shouldn’t hold fear for the Gers.
Steven Gerrard’s side are unbeaten from nine league games on the road, while they also secured draws away at Feyenoord and Porto in Europa League Group G.
A resurgent Hibs will provide a test, but Rangers have overcome bigger obstacles already this season, and even without El Bufalo, a strong performance should bring three points.
