Bounce Exclusive - Riordan plays!

[SKII]

Whilst Tony Mowbray has been reported as saying he wants Hibees striker, Derek Riordan, to "sweat" over whether he will face Celtic at Parkhead tomorrow, the Hibees Bounce can reveal that Deek WILL be in the Hibernian line up against the champions.
Mowbray has already decided upon his starting line up - and this WILL include the youngster who has been courting controversy this week. Whilst the manager is far from pleased with his young striker, he is also of the opinion that the player should respond to being treated like an adult - and he will name Riordan on the team sheet without hesitation tomorrow.
However, it should be noted that he not only expects a reaction from the player, by means of repayment in kind - but a mature response to the manner in which the manager has chosen to implement internal club disciplinary procedures.

The gaffer is prepared to let the player show that he can and has learned from his "errors of judgement" and expects the kind of performance he has managed to lure from Garry O'Connor for much of this season.

There is no doubt that the manager was "tempted to drop Derek" however, that momentary thought passed as quickly as Riordan himself hopes to turn Bobo Balde on the pitch.

The Bounce can also reveal that the manager is quietly sure that Riordan will see out the rest of the season - despite speculation to the contrary. Mowbray is keen to retain the services of the young star and insisted today that "nobody has been in touch, nor do I expect anyone to be in touch".

Whatever the ins and outs of this week's Riordan escapades, there can be no doubting that we ALL hope that the wee fella repays his manager in the best manner possible - and shows us all that the press sensationalism is both unwarranted and largely fabricated.
Time for Hibees everywhere - like Tony Mowbray - to stand shoulder to shoulder with all the Hibees players. To stand up and be counted.