Maloney has three games to ride storm
John Brownlie believes Hibs are caught in a top six Premiership and Scottish Cup perfect storm.
However, the Easter Road legend insists his old club can cope with Hear ts’ resurgence and still end this campaign in glory.
They face Dundee United next weekend before a double header with their city rivals in the league then a Scottish Cup semi-final.
But Brownlie is backing boss Shaun Maloney to get things right.
He said: “The next three games are enormous. It can either be great or garbage and I’m sure Shaun knows the size of what lies ahead.
“Wins against United then Hearts at Tynecastle are what’s required before the Cup tie.
“It’s a perfect storm for Hibs as Hearts have been doing so well this season since their promotion.
“Shaun’s played in huge games and been involved in huge matches during his role with the Belgium national side – so he’s well equipped to deal with what’s about to arrive.
“It’s simple. It’s three games that could make it a brilliant season for him and the club – or one that ends up in failure.
“Over the last three or four years he’s dealt with some top players.
“Guys like Eden Hazard, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne. As a coach there are times when you need to be forceful with players and stand up for yourself so he’s equipped to do that well.
“Ma loney either has to guide the side to a top- six finish or win the Scottish Cup.
“If he doesn’t then there w i l l be pressure piled on him. That mayy seem harsh but football iss a results- driven businesss and it can be brutal.
“That’s why there has too be something positive forr Hibs to look back on at thee end of this season.”
Brownlie (below) insistss it ’ s time for the Hibss players to discover thee consistency that has eludedd them all season.
He said: “It’s a lack off consistency which is killingg Hibs at the moment.
“One win in the leaguee from the last 11 games tellss its own story. The loss off Kevin Nisbet from the teamm through injury is a massivee blow and hasn’t helped.
“It’s time for the big players to stand up. I’d like to see Chris Mueller show more as he looks capable of making an impact.
“I have no doubt that Hibs have the players who can ride out this storm. It all depends on whether they turn up.
“Shaun needs results to get the fans on his side and everything rides on the next few weeks.
“They’ve had a break and should be recharged so there can be no excuses.”
The loss of Ryan Porteous through suspension is also another blow for Hibs.
Brownlie said: “I’m a fan of Porteous. He’s getting better all the time but his rashness can be frustrating.
“Losing such a key man at this critical stage is a problem as he’s a big figure at the heart of the defence.
“Maloney will have to shuffle his pack but it’s a chance for someone else to show what they can do. Hibs can turn the season on its head in a positive way – that’s the belief they need.”