Sam Stanton hopes he has given Hibs’ promotion hopes a boost after his weekend winner for Livingston put the brakes on Falkirk’s Championship play-off charge.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who joined the Lions on loan in January after making only six appearances for Hibs during the first half of the campaign, notched what proved to be the decisive strike in the 2-1 win.
The surprise victory prevented second place Falkirk from extending their six point lead over their Leith counterparts and Hibs can now capitalise in their three games in hand.
Stanton said: “I’ve done Hibs a turn. I’m concentrating on Livi but it’s nice to think I have helped Hibs out too.
“Could it mean the difference between being a Championship and Premiership player next season? I hadn’t thought about it like that but it could.
“Alan Stubbs phoned me a couple of weeks ago to check how I was getting on. Maybe he will get back in touch now, you never know.”
Livingston were already leading through Jordan White’s 75th minute effort when Stanton scored a fantastic individual effort from just outside the box.
The Lions thought they had the points wrapped up but Bairns midfielder Will Vaulks headed in seconds later.
Falkirk then spurned a great chance to level when John Baird’s penalty was saved by Marc McCallum after Louis Longridge, who was sent off, brought down Lee Miller.
Stanton came on at half-time at the Falkirk stadium and admits he is loving playing regular football.
He added: “I’ve enjoyed being back playing again at Livingston. It’s done me the world of good.
“It’s difficult not playing and I was a long time at Hibs not playing.
“My confidence had taken a knock. Doubts happen when you don’t play but I’m back to how I was feeling.
“I was frustrated to start on the bench on Saturday but I ended up hopefully giving the manager a decision to make next week.
“The team has grown in confidence too. We have a good team and we have picked up some important points in recent weeks.”
