Hibs defender Sol Bamba set to prove his fitness for tough run of games

Hibs star Sol Bamba is ready to declare himself fit for the Easter Road outfit's punishing festive schedule which will see them play three crucial games in six days.

A huge question mark was placed against the Ivory Coast defender when he limped out of last weekend's defeat at Kilmarnock after suffering a hamstring strain.

But today boss Colin Calderwood revealed the former Dunfermline player's chances of playing his part in the three matches – beginning with the Boxing Day clash against Aberdeen at Easter Road – have increased dramatically.

While Bamba would have been ruled out of Wednesday night's fixture with Hamilton had New Douglas Park been declared playable, the 25-year-old has taken part in a training session with his team-mates.

As the remainder of Calderwood's squad enjoyed a day off yesterday Bamba was at the club's East Mains training centre for further treatment with his manager hopeful he'd be able to confirm his full fitness in training both today and Christmas Day.

However, Calderwood admitted he'd be taking no chances with the 6ft 3in defender, arguing it would be better he miss one game if there was any doubt rather than risk losing him for a number of weeks with Dundee United and a second derby against Hearts to follow the Dons' visit.

Calderwood said: "Wednesday night would have been a bit tight for Sol but with Sunday being another four days down the line he has more chance to recover.

"But we have to get it right and we'll sit down and discuss it with the medical people before making a final decision."