Hibs can grab Hearts bragging rights and be Capital kings for first time since Gorgie mob's return - Tam McManus

Capital kings, EH number 1 or, dare I say it, natural order. The Hibs-Hearts rivalry has come with all manner of catchphrases and put downs in recent years but right now as both clubs sit near the foot of the table without a league win it looks more like capital punishment.

Not for long though. Not in Hibs’ case. I genuinely see shoots of recovery in the Easter Road side that I reckon can finally see them grab bragging rights in Edinburgh at the end of the season. Hibs should always be looking to finish above Hearts, no matter the circumstances, but they’ve been miles off it in the last few years.

However, for the first time since the Gorgie mob’s return to the top flight I genuinely believe this is the season Hibs will get back on top. Let’s be honest, with the way Hearts have started then they’ll never have a better chance. Even if David Gray’s side have only mustered one point more.

I watched Hearts against Plzen and Dundee United last week and they look completely devoid of confidence. Lawrence Shankland’s goals have dried up and they have no threat going forward as a result. Add to that the fact the Tynecastle side have the problem of having to juggle their domestic stuff with European games right up to Christmas and I reckon they’ll struggle to finish in the top three or even four now.

Hibs have to take advantage. I’m seeing green and white shoots of recovery. The signings have been good. The squad looks strong. And I was really impressed with the performance against Kilmarnock on Saturday. David Gray got his tactics bang on.

The three in the middle of the park worked well and Nectar Triantis and Kwon were superb. I know the reaction to Triantis coming back up on loan from Sunderland on deadline day wasn't the most