BY DARREN JOHNSTONE @CCP_Sport
Hibernian head coach Alan Stubbs knows the club’s 114-year wait for Scottish Cup glory is no laughing matter, but he could not help but resort to humour yesterday as he discussed their latest assault on the competition.
After being beaten in the semi-final stage by Falkirk last season in Stubbs’ first year in charge, a trip to Raith Rovers in tomorrow’s fourth round is the first hurdle needing cleared as they renew their attempts to get their hands on the ‘Holy Grail’.
“Even Indiana Jones got that in the end,” joked Stubbs, in reference to the 1989 Hollywood movie blockbuster.
“Everybody has entered the competition with a dream, every fan is wondering if this can be their year.
“I’m entering it in my second year with exactly the same thoughts.
“It’s going to change some time. When? Unfortunately that crystal ball is not telling me.
“Maybe I might go and see a fortune teller and they can enlighten me.”
Stubbs could hand new January recruits Niklas Gunnarsson and Chris Dagnell their debuts at Stark’s Park, and the former Celtic defender admits some of his fringe players could be heading in the opposite direction this month.
Defender Jordon Forster, whose only appearance came in last July’s Petrofac Training Cup loss to Rangers, has been linked with English League Two sides Plymouth Argyle and York City.
Stubbs added: “There is a possibility that something might happen.
“We have not had any contact between clubs but there is a possibility that Jordon may go out on loan.
“I know it is frustrating for those guys who have not featured all the time but I speak to them constantly.”
Stubbs, meanwhile, confirmed that former Hearts defender Adam Eckersley’s short-term deal will not be extended this month, with the left-back, who has not managed a single game for the club, weighing up an offer in Canada.
Stubbs added: “Adam won’t be staying with us.
“He’s possibly got an offer in Canada which he is keen to explore.
“He goes with our best wishes, it’s unfortunate that he’s not been able to get his match fitness up to scratch.
“He’s been fighting a groin issue and that’s prevented him from playing.”
