Falkirk manager Peter Houston reckons his Bairns side would be able to handle life in the Premiership.
A second league victory over runaway Championship leaders Rangers last Friday has left Falkirk in a good position to finish second ahead of Hibs and enter the play-offs at the semi-final stage.
That has strengthened Houston’s belief that his team can survive back in the top-flight were they to gain promotion.
Houston, whose side will bid to increase their lead over their Leith counterparts to nine points with victory at home to Livingston this weekend, said: “I definitely think we could hold our own in the Premiership.
“I wouldn’t fear going up with the squad I’ve got, although I’d obviously look to strengthen.
“Look at Hibs’ results in the cups – they’ve beaten Aberdeen, Dundee United, St Johnstone and Hearts.
“In the League Cup final against Ross County they were the better football team and had more of the ball but it’s all about scoring goals.
“But Hibs handled themselves well, just as we have this season.
“That’s why I’ve said before that we should have a bigger league. Teams like Falkirk with 4,000 season tickets would be an asset to the Premiership but I’d rather earn it.
“Teams with less season ticket sales – like Ross County, Hamilton and Inverness, have earned it.”
