By Ray Mcgrath
January 9 2004

HIBS’ Tennent’s Scottish Cup hopes were given a boost today when boss Bobby Williamson confirmed both Derek Riordan and Tam McManus are in his plans for Saturday’s tie of the round against Rangers. Riordan missed the victory over Partick Thistle through suspension after being sent off against Celtic while McManus was absent due to a bout of the flu.

But McManus returned to training on Tuesday and like Riordan was firmly in the manager’s thoughts today.

And although Williamson is known to be reluctant to change a winning team, he revealed he’d have no hesitation in doing so if he felt it would enhance Hibs’ chances of beating the Ibrox outfit.

He said: "I’ll be looking at things over the next couple of days. We had a winning team last weekend but I’ll have no hesitation in making changes, I’ll be picking the team I feel can win the game.

"Obviously having Derek and Tam, both attack-minded players, available for selection again is good news, as a manager you want to have as many options as possible."

Tickets sales for the match continue to be "very steady" despite the fact the third round tie will be shown live on television with a lunch-time kick-off and Williamson believes Hibs fans can play a vital part in the outcome of the game - as they did in the CIS Cup triumph over Celtic.

He said: "I definitely felt the crowd was a factor against Celtic. Even when we went a goal behind they raised it that wee bit more and encouraged us all the way.

"It would be great if we could get the same sort of support as we did in that match. The Scottish Cup seems to bring out more fans for some reason and hopefully the supporters who do come along will get right behind us."

Hibs reminded season ticket holders they have until 5.00pm today if they want to guarantee their own seat for the game.

Meanwhile, Morton have joined the race for out-of-favour Hibs star Paul Fenwick after Partick Thistle failed to agree a deal with the Easter Road outfit.

The Jags wanted to take the Canadian defender on loan until the end of the season but now Fenwick’s former club have stepped in hoping his experience will help in the Division Two run-in."