Just two days after our UEFA Europa Conference League outing, Lee Johnson’s side are in action again, allowing a number of players to gain vital minutes ahead of the new league campaign.
The big news is that Martin Boyle will feature for the Hibees for the first time since October 2022 as he continues to recover from his ACL injury.
Boyle has been working hard with the Club’s medical staff and will start today against the Seasiders.
“This game is a really important marker for Boyler," said Johnson.
"He will get between 30 and 45 minutes today in what will be a good, competitive match.
“He’s worked extremely hard to get into this position and we’re very proud of how he’s handled himself during his rehabilitation period.
“The information gained from this game will be really important for us as we look to get him back to competitive action, which is something we’re desperate to do.”
Alongside this, the 2,500 travelling Hibernian FC fans will also get to see Jojo Wollacott and Riley Harbottle in action.
Our new boys gained some minutes in our pre-season friendlies but will be in action for a prolonged period this afternoon.
“Jojo has been doing well since he’s come in,” Johnson continued.
“I think it’s important for every goalkeeper to find their feet when they come to a new club, and today gives him an opportunity to gain more minutes. We’ve been impressed with him so far.
“Riley has made a really good first impression with everybody at the Club and he’s pushing for a starting position. It’ll be a good test for him today against a good side.”
The game will also provide an excellent opportunity for four of our talented young players with Oscar MacIntyre, Kanayo Megwa, Reuben McAllister and Rudi Molotnikov all starting.
All four have impressed during pre-season and will now face a strong Blackpool side, who are gearing up for the start of their English League 1 campaign.
Not only will they be playing against senior players, but our youngsters will also have the experience of playing in front of a large crowd.
“These guys have done extremely well over pre-season and deserve this opportunity.
“The crowd at today’s game will be one of the biggest they’ve played in-front of and it’s an important part of their development that they get to feel the emotional stakes of a game that’s created by the atmosphere.
“We’ve got a lot of belief in our young players and they’re starting to show their worth. They must make an impression in this game to earn the trust that we can put them in a First Team environment on a competitive matchday.
“For Reuben (McAllister) and Rudi (Molotnikov) it’s really important that they have the experience of Jimmy (Jeggo) with them. He’s a really good talker, which will help guide them through the game and with the midfield battle.”
Will Fish won’t be involved with Lee Johnson’s side today after travelling back from the United States with Manchester United, but he will link up with the matchday squad.
Hibernian FC line-up
Jojo Wollacott; Allan Delferrière, Kanayo Megwa, Riley Harbottle, Oscar MacIntyre; Jimmy Jeggo, Reuben McAllister, Rudi Molotnikov; Dan MacKay, Elias Melkersen, Martin Boyle.
Subs
Max Boruc; Owen Hastie, Robbie Hamilton, Jacob MacIntyre, Malik Zaid.
