The Hibernian Tunnel aims to inspire players

The eagerly awaited unveiling of the first phase of the new Hibernian Tunnel has now been installed, ready to make its home debut against Queen of the South on Saturday 15 November, kick off 3pm.

The new-look Hibernian Tunnel will dramatically transform the look and feel of the area occupied by the players just before they step onto Easter Road’s turf.

Special messages chosen by supporters will adorn the walls of the tunnel – firing up the Hibs’ players minutes before kick-off to remind everybody about the privilege and responsibility associated with wearing a green shirt.

The club apologised to fans on their website for the delay and thank everybody who purchased a tunnel plaque for their phenomenal support and patience while the project was finalised

Meanwhile striker Dominique Malonga has flown out to join up with the Congo national squad for the African Cup of Nations qualifiers against Nigeria and Sudan and will therefore be unavailable for the visit of Queen of the South on Saturday.

Paris-born Malonga, who qualifies to represent Congo through his parents, was previously capped at under-19 level by France.

After scoring six goals in 10 appearances for Hibernian, Malonga was named in Congo’s 26-man squad for the monumental clash against Nigeria in Group A.

In other news, Irish teenager Cody Mulhall returned to action for the Under 20s and scored a memorable late equaliser as Hibs recorded a creditable 1-1 draw against a strong and experienced Celtic team featuring Scotland striker Leigh Griffiths.

The highly rated youngster has been sidelined following a bad injury last year.