Hibs goalkeeper recalled by QPR; desperately need replacement for Celtic game

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Hibs goalkeeper Dillon Barnes has been recalled by QPR, leaving Jack Ross’ side without a senior shot-stopper ahead of their Celtic trip.

Barnes has recently come into the Hibs side for their last four matches. Ofir Marciano looked set to return against Livingston but limped off during the warm-up on Saturday.

There’s no guarantee as of yet that Marciano will be back in time for next week’s crunch game at Parkhead. Instead, Hibs may have to look elsewhere as they struggle for a replacement.

With the January transfer window open, the Hibees may have to quickly make a dart to get someone in. If they don’t, they may instead have to recall youngster Kevin Dabrowski from Dumbarton.

If they really are desperate, they could re-register Craig Samson. He’s part of Jack Ross’ backroom team at Easter Road these days. More likely, youngster Murray Johnson could make a big debut after helping warm-up the senior keepers this season.

Whoever the Hibs goalkeeper, Celtic will look to pepper him

The most likely situation from a Hibs perspective will be to delve into the market. Managers these days are hesitant to throw youngsters into major games such as this one, whilst the idea of Samson returning should only be a last resort.

Even Dabrowski coming back from his loan stint would be foolish. Not if it’s just for a game or two only to sit on their bench. Nope, the most logical deal they could do is to bring someone in for the short-term. A goalkeeper with something to prove who will be playing for a longer-term contract.

Regardless of who it is, Celtic will be itching to pepper them with shots on goal. The Hoops have seriously cranked up their chance creation rate in recent weeks. That was on show again vs Rangers at Ibrox, where McGregor had two major saves to make in the first half before we went down to 10 men.

Ideally, Hibs give the jersey to someone who’ll struggle with the occasion. Someone Celtic can easily get at and nab a few goals against. The more we increase our goal difference, the better. We need every goal we can get this season.

Knowing our luck, whatever move they do make will see their keeper have the game of his life. We saw Marciano produce a superb performance in the 2-2 draw at Easter Road towards the tail-end of last year. The last thing we need is something similar.

Remember, there’s no guarantee that Marciano will miss this one out, but it doesn’t look great for him. If he doesn’t, Hibs have a colossal problem ahead of their trip to Parkhead.

In other news, we discuss why Neil Lennon has likely already passed his big January review.