Home advantage can give Hibs edge
Hoops at Parkhead a week after drawing with Rangers, Ross said: “It’s a big game, with a relatively quick turnaround. We’ve not had our international players and Ofir [ Marciano] doesn’t get back until Friday.
“So, it’s challenging, with regards to some of our preparations
“But it’s a brilliant game. It’s a tough test but one we look forward to.
“We’ve been good at Easter Road this season. We’ve proven against the top teams we can do well here.
“We’ll need to be at our best, but it’s a game we look forward to.”
Meanwhile, Ross admits he will embrace any “knock- on benefits” that come his way from Hibs’ link- up with US side Charleston Battery.
The clubs agreed a “strategic partnership” last week that will lead to
collaboration on a number of areas throughout the club such as player development, scouting and community engagement.
Battery defender Leland Archer and former Rangers and Raith Rovers midfielder Robbie Crawford are training with Hibs, with FC Dallas youngster
Thomas Roberts also bidding to land a move to Edinburgh thanks to owner Ron Gordon’s links in the United States.
Ross added: “I think there’s loads of different parts to it. The driver behind it is to develop a strategic partnership and I think the club are keen to do more of them as well.
“It’s about idea sharing and best practices across all aspects of the club.
“The one that obviously gets the most attention is what happens on the pitch at first- team level.
“I’m open minded about a lot of stuff. I think it’s another proactive step for the club in terms of trying to move forward as a collective.
“And if there’s a knock- on benefit to me at first team level, in terms of potentially recruiting good players, then great.”