Hibernian were portrayed as a club in crisis early this season, but attacker Paul Heffernan has found a squad full of confidence since arriving from Kilmarnock.
Hibs lost their first four games of the season, which included a 7-0 home defeat by Malmo, but had secured their first Scottish Premiership win of the campaign against Kilmarnock when Heffernan moved from Rugby Park just before the transfer deadline.
Pat Fenlon’s side have since lost just once and last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Celtic has set them up for an intriguing top-six match against Aberdeen at Easter Road.
Heffernan has been an integral part of that form with three goals in his first five starts and is revelling in his new challenge.
“When I first came in, you would never think the team was under pressure,” the Irishman said.
“It was just after beating Kilmarnock the week before and they were full of confidence.
“They were bubbly, the training was good and they seemed like they were really enjoying themselves.
“I think that’s rubbed off. We have managed to get a few good results and the place is full of confidence.
“I have loved it since I came here, it’s been great. The players made me feel very welcome from the moment I came through the door.”
Hibs will leapfrog Aberdeen into fourth place if they win today and Heffernan admits the game is a good chance to signal their progress. The 31-year-old added: “They have bought some very good players in and spent a few quid. I’m sure they want to finish in the European places and so do we.”