The imminent return of club captain Joe Newell has provided a “real boost” for Hibernian, says head coach David Gray.
The 32-year-old midfielder has not played since 29 December 2024 but has now completed two weeks of full tempo training.
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“This is positive for him,” said Gray. “It’s been a long fight, trying to get fit.
“Having him around, driving the standard and the intensity within training, is a real boost.
“There’s an international break coming up, we have a bounce game as well, which will be really significant for him and the boys that haven’t played as many minutes.”
Fellow midfielder Alasana Manneh is also close to a complete recovery, having been out with a hamstring injury since late August, while Warren O’Hora is fit again after missing the past two matches with a shoulder issue.
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Hibs travel to St Mirren on Saturday looking to end a run of eight league games without a win against the Paisley side.
“It’s a very competitive league and I expect a tough game,” said Gray, who has his side sitting third in the Premiership despite just three wins from 11 games.
“I think they’ve added well again. He [St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson] does really well in building his squad every year. He’s put together a real strong, physical side.
“They’re always very well organised. They carry a huge threat, real legs in the middle of the pitch. So you know that’s what you’re going to face when you go down there, set pieces, huge part of the game as well.”
