Matt Thornhill aims to add firepower for Hibs

Midfielder Matt Thornhill is hoping to ease Hibs' striking worries by continuing his pre-season scoring form when the real action gets under way against Celtic this weekend.

The 22-year-old was hailed as a goal-scoring midfielder when he arrived at Easter Road in January but failed to hit the target in eight appearances before injury ruled him out for the remainder of the season.

However, the former Nottingham Forest youngster grabbed a double in the recent friendly win over East Fife, to add to another in a closed-door victory over Morton, and is keen to prove manager Colin Calderwood right to talk up his goal-scoring strengths.

Akpo Sodje's knee injury has left Garry O'Connor as the side's sole striker ahead of the new campaign and it looks increasingly unlikely that trialist Cillian Sheridan will join, despite contact having been made between Hibs and the former Celtic player's club, CSKA Sofia. The Irishman's current high wage means Hibs - who travel to face Falkirk in another friendly tonight - will probably lose out on the player, who seems likely to move elsewhere on loan.

Ghana international Junior Agogo has also been on trial but, with time running out for Calderwood to increase his options up front, Thornhill's attacking instincts could be sorely needed.

He said: "I struggled when I first came because I couldn't really show the Hibs fans what I could do. In pre-season we've seen a glimpse of what I can do. The gaffer brought me in knowing I could score goals. I've got some in pre-season, so hopefully I can get some during the season and get a good run of games."