Mixu insists Hibs can end Inverness jinx

Published on Tuesday 19 August 2008 10:43

MIXU PAATELAINEN admitted today that his side's record against Inverness is horrendous – but believes Hibs can break their duck at the Caledonian Stadium on his first trip north.

Paatelainen has played just once in Inverness, in a testimonial match, and will make his first appearance there as a manager this weekend.

He goes there in the knowledge that Hibs haven't won a game against the hosts at their own stadium in five attempts, but is determined to put that statistic to bed.

He said: "Our record up there is absolutely horrendous, but we have to forget about that and take each game as it comes.

"Inverness always make it difficult for teams, not only us, on their home ground. I know that they had a disappointing result last weekend, but that could make it even more difficult for us.

"But we got a few goals last weekend and I am confident that there will be more to come from them and from our midfielders this season."

Meanwhile, Paatelainen believes that Andy McNeil will be fit for the trip north. The goalkeeper took a thigh knock in the first half of the gameagainst Falkirk last weekend, but was able to complete the 90 minutes.

With Yves Ma-Kalambay on international duty at the Olympics, the Hibs boss would most likely have to call on reserve stopper David Grof, who made a couple of appearances for the first team during their pre-season games.

But Paatelainen, who will be at Hampden tomorrow night for Scotland's friendly match against Northern Ireland, believes that the odds are stacked in McNeil's favour.

He said: "If Andy didn't make it then we have a Plan B, but I'm sure we won't have to use it."