Celtic's newly acquired status as league leaders and favourites for the championship will be tested at Easter Road today by a Hibernian team scrapping for every point to avoid relegation.
Despite their position at the bottom of the table, just a week ago Hibernian led Rangers and came within two minutes of a draw with the champions. On Wednesday, they followed with a 1-1 draw at Dundee United. Still in search of their first victory under Alex McLeish, they will introduce Grant Brebner to their midfield. The 20-year-old is on loan from Manchester United.
"He may be inexperienced," said McLeish, "but he has had a good grooming and has a good mentality. In our circumstances, we need somebody who can do more than just put his foot on the ball."
Hibernian, however, continue without the suspended Pat McGinlay, a player with a good scoring record against Celtic.
Wim Jansen, the head coach at Parkhead, said yesterday that the defender Alan Stubbs and midfielder Jackie McNamara, who missed the 5-1 victory over Dunfermline on Wednesday, were back in training and should be available.
Despite their impressive form this season, they were hardly missed on a night when David Hannah and Simon Donnelly fitted snugly into the team and contributed to an enthralling performance.
"That's one of the pleasing things," said Jansen, "to see them train as a squad and play as a squad. Those who are not regular choices know that injuries will force us to change the team and that they are contributing even if they are substitutes.
"When they come into the side, they know what is required and they give of themselves. There is a togetherness about the group and you can see how much confidence they bring to a game and how much they enjoy playing together."
At Ibrox, third-placed Rangers face Hearts, who are two points ahead of the champions and behind Celtic only on goal difference. Paul Gascoigne, who has recovered well from an injury in the game against Kilmarnock, could yet play. Brian Laudrup is a doubt with a calf injury, however, and Gordon Durie, who was concussed by a knock on Tuesday, will be missing for a month.
