Lee Johnson admits his Hibs side are 'fighting' for the fans as he looks to start 2023 in the perfect fashion against Hearts.
The Easter Road boss takes his side across the city for the second Edinburgh derby of the campaign at Tynecastle. The Hibees go into the showdown off the back of a 4-0 thumping on their own patch by Celtic and trailing the Jambos by five points in the Premiership standings - having played a game more.
Robbie Neilson's men are sitting third and can further strengthen their hold on the position while dent their rivals hopes of European football next season with victory in front of a packed out vocal support in Gorgie. But Johnson is out to deny them that chance. He wants his side to be 'super positive' as he made it clear what is expected in order to achieve a result with a 'simple as that' message.
READ MORE: Lee Johnson says Hibs 'full of potential' as he delivers Celtic verdict ahead of Hearts derby clash
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Speaking to Hibs TV, he said: "Going into a New Year it gives us a massive chance and opportunity to start 2023 in a really positive way. With the fans behind us it’ll hopefully be an amazing day and that’s what we want to achieve.
“I feel like we can go there and be super positive. We think we can go and infiltrate what is a good Hearts side.
“You’ve got to be careful not to play the occasion. You have to win your individual battles, you’ve got to be physical and bring out your best when it matters most, and in derbies it matters most, so it’s as simple as that.”
He continued: “We’re fighting for the fans. At times we’ve been disappointing and at times we’ve been excellent. I understand people’s love of the club and where we need to be. We do need to be there, and we will get there.
“This is an opportunity for us to show that all the hard work can come together. It’ll be a real lift if we can win this game, not just for the players, but for the green half of the city.”
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