Gus MacPherson has said that Hibs are genuine contenders to split the Old Firm and take second spot in the SPL. The Buddies’ boss is preparing his team to face John Hughes’ side at St Mirren Park on Saturday and says Hibs have everything required to be at the top end of the league at the end of the season.

It is over 30 years since Hibs last finished second but having made a bright start to the season, the Edinburgh side are being tipped by many to repeat Hearts’ feat in splitting the Glasgow giants in 2005-06.

MacPherson has seen John Hughes improve the Easter Road outfit since taking over in the summer and thinks they can sustain their good form.

“I’m sure they’ll say privately that they can make a serious challenge,” he told the Scottish Sun.

“With their form and squad they should believe it. They have confidence and match winners.”
 
Hughes has entertained Hibs fans by playing as many as four forwards in some SPL games this season and MacPherson admired his rival’s attacking options.

”Riordan, Zemmama and Benji all make things happen,” he said.

“Stokes is a natural goalscorer, Nish has a record for goals and Liam Miller has improved the supply.”

Hibs currently sit third in the SPL table, three points behind leaders Celtic and one point behind Rangers, who have a game in hand.