Bryson gives Mixu a boost for Hibs clash

MIXU PAATELAINEN reckons that Craig Bryson could hold the key to success against Hibs today - and that the midfielder could play his way back into Craig Levein's Scotland plans with a good performance at Easter Road.

His Kilmarnock side travel to the Capital boosted by the return to fitness of the influential Bryson, who suffered an ankle injury in the Scottish Cup tie against Rangers at the beginning of January and hasn't played since.

Former Hibs manager Paatelainen revealed that Bryson is back in contention for the trip to Edinburgh, although he may have to start the match on the bench and said: "Craig is fit again, which is welcome news ahead of the Hibs game. He's been in full training this week and are we're all delighted. Whether he will start the match is another matter but I would expect him to feature at some point. His attitude is first class and he is full of energy. He also loves the passing game we try to play.

"Having him back for this game is a timely boost."

Hibs got back to winning ways against St Mirren ten days ago and are hoping to build on that result with another three points against the Ayrshire men.

Despite Hibs' position in the SPL table right now, Paatelainen knows that they have been playing some decent football, and that they will provide his side with tough opposition.

Paatelainen warned his Killie players that they cannot afford to take their foot off the gas, insisting: "It will be a tough match. There are no easy fixtures in this league and we will have to be at our best.

"We will give it a good shot and if we play to our strengths we can win."