Hibs boss hopes strikers' duel will boost league challenge

Having ended every season in a green and white jersey as top scorer, Riordan, pictured, was toppled by Anthony Stokes, his tally of 17 topped by the Republic of Ireland hitman's 23.

But with the first match of the new season fast approaching – away to Motherwell on Sunday – Hughes revealed the rivalry between the pair is already heating up. He said: "I heard Derek the other day telling Stokesy he's already got five in pre-season but now Anthony has two from Ireland's Under-21 match the other night." Although he's been delighted to hear the good-natured banter, Hughes stressed that must be put aside for the benefit of the team, saying: "Some of the stuff they do in training is unbelievable but we need the two of them complementing each other.

"Derek's return of 17 was fantastic given he plays that wider position but when you add in Colin Nish our strikers got 50-odd between them last season."

The Easter Road strikers got all six when Hibs last travelled to Fir Park, the match ending in an astonishing 6-6 draw, the highest-ever scoring match in the SPL but today Hughes admitted he'd happily settle for a 1-0 win.

He said: "Like everyone else we are looking to get off to a good start but Motherwell is a difficult place to go at any time. They are always well organised and at the moment they will be on a high because of their European run."

Although Hibs finished fourth last season, Hughes refused to set any targets ahead of the big kick-off, saying: "I don't like to build expectations, all I ask is that we make sure we are spirited, together and play some good football and then we will see what happens."

Nish and goalkeeper Graham Stack returned to training yesterday having recovered from calf injuries and, provided there is no reaction today, both will be in the squad which travels to Lanarkshire but Ian Murray will be missing through suspension.

A young Hibs side defeated Duns 6-0 last night, watched by Hughes.