Hearts could play Wright into Hibees' hands, says Keith

MARK BONTHRONE

KEITH WRIGHT today tipped Hibs to deliver the perfect Scottish Cup hangover cure for their fans by clinching all three points against Hearts at Tynecastle tonight.

The Hibees hold a five-point advantage over the men in maroon ahead of the eagerly-awaited Capital clash and Easter Road great Wright believes that gap could be the key to the visitors’ success.

Wright, who has just been unveiled as Midlothian’s new football development officer, insisted tonight’s match is a must-win game for the Jambos if they are to overhaul Hibs in the race for European qualification.

And he feels Hearts’ eagerness to push forward could play straight into Hibs’ hands, who he believes are perfectly suited to exploit any gaps left in defence.

"A draw wouldn’t be a disaster for Hibs while a point isn’t really good enough for Hearts," Wright said. "I think that will suit Hibs perfectly as they don’t have to take any unnecessary risks.

"They have players in Derek Riordan and Garry O’Connor who can get in behind Hearts if any gaps are left and I think it’s a great situation for Hibs to be in.

"The match has the makings of a high-scoring game and with what is at stake it’s one of the most intriguing games for years. In many ways it’s the perfect game for Hibs to go into after such a disappointing result at the weekend as there should be no need to try and motivate the players."

And should Wright’s prophecy prove accurate he believes Mowbray’s side will all but book their UEFA Cup ticket for next term.

"If Hibs win I can’t see them not being involved in Europe next season," he revealed. "I have been really impressed with the progress they have made under Tony Mowbray and if the gap over Hearts was to stretch to eight points and they also extended the lead over Aberdeen I think they would just about be there.

"I know the supporters will be disappointed about not making it to the cup final but I think getting into the UEFA Cup would make up for that."

Wright, who was sacked by Cowdenbeath last October, had recently been helping coach Livingston’s youth team but this week started a new role with Midlothian Council.

And he revealed the opportunity to get involved in grass-roots coaching and try and to bring on more youngsters was too good an opportunity to turn down.

"It’s my job to really promote and develop football in Midlothian for kids between three and 12 years old which is a massive challenge," he said. "These are the years when they really learn the key skills and develop habits they will hopefully continue in their later years.

"David Kennedy laid a lot of the groundwork in the role and I’m trying to continue the good work he did. And I’m delighted to be working with a council who are so football-oriented and are trying to make a difference in their area.

"We have 35 primary schools, six secondary schools and 15 boys and girls clubs we are going to work with and our aim is to help them enjoy the game first and foremost and if they show the ability to take it further then great.

"I was involved as a player then a manager for 22 years and I see this as my chance to give something back to the game.

"It’s a bit of a new direction for me but so far I’m really enjoying it and hopefully I can make a difference."

Taken from the Scotsman