Hibernian Football Club is focused on restoring their confidence and securing third place in the league by achieving a victory against the struggling Livingston team.
Topics covered
As Hibernian prepares to face Livingston this weekend, the stakes are high for the Edinburgh club. Following a challenging midweek match against Rangers, which ended in a 1-0 defeat, the team is eager to demonstrate their resilience. Hibernian’s head coach, David Gray, emphasizes the significance of bouncing back and rediscovering their form.
Looking ahead to the Livingston clash
Hibernian aims to make the most of the opportunity against a team currently at the bottom of the league table. Despite having achieved convincing victories over Livingston earlier in the season, Gray warns against complacency.
He underscores the unpredictability of the Scottish Premiership and recognizes that past results do not guarantee future success.
Injury concerns and squad readiness
Hibernian is currently addressing several injury concerns as they prepare for their upcoming match. Player Warren O’Hora is doubtful due to a shoulder injury, and others such as Dylan Levitt and Rudi Molotnikov remain unavailable. Despite these setbacks, manager Gray is optimistic that most of his squad will be fit to face Livingston.
Gray noted the physical toll that the midweek match took on his players, stating that many are experiencing “bumps and bruises.” However, he remains hopeful that the team’s resolve will prevail, enabling them to focus on reclaiming their position in the upper tier of the league.
Understanding the opponent: Livingston
Livingston has faced difficulties this season, missing key players like Shane Blaney and Adam Montgomery. The team has not won in their last nine matches, likely affecting their confidence. Nevertheless, their manager, David Martindale, aims to capitalize on Hibernian’s recent struggles, particularly following a challenging match against Rangers.
Adapting to the conditions
A critical factor highlighted by Gray is the astroturf pitch at Livingston’s home ground. This artificial surface poses unique challenges that Hibernian may not face regularly. Gray is optimistic that his players, accustomed to playing on such surfaces, will adapt effectively and meet the challenge.
Reflecting on their previous encounters this season, where Hibernian secured a convincing 4-0 victory at home, Gray urges his squad to stay alert. He believes Livingston will be eager to demonstrate improvement and will likely respond strongly after their earlier defeats against Hibernian.
Focusing on the future
In addition to the immediate match, Hibernian’s head coach, Gray, is looking ahead to the January transfer window. He stated that the club’s recruitment team is actively scouting for potential new players to strengthen the lineup. Reflecting on the previous summer, he acknowledged that there were players they missed out on who could enhance the squad in the coming months.
As Hibernian aims to regain momentum, the focus remains on the current challenge against Livingston. Gray emphasized the need for a strong performance to secure all three points, which would elevate Hibernian back into the sought-after third spot in the league standings.
Despite recent setbacks, the team’s confidence remains intact. Players like Junor Hoilett, known for his standout performances against Livingston, are expected to make significant contributions. Hoilett has scored a considerable portion of his goals against this opponent, demonstrating his knack for delivering in crucial moments.
As Hibernian prepares for this important fixture, Gray’s leadership and strategic approach will be essential in navigating the challenges posed by Livingston. The desire to rebound from their recent loss against Rangers will motivate the team as they pursue a much-needed victory.
