Hibernian manager John Hughes has warned his side that cup progress is in their own hands against Ross County.

The Edinburgh club face First Division County at Easter Road in a competition they have not won for 108 years.

Hughes said that Hibs' destiny lies in their own hands: "We know the importance of it, there's no point in trying to shy away from it," he said.

"It's going to be a very difficult match, but one that we're more than capable of winning."

However Hughes warned against complacency from the Edinburgh side as they face a club he has the 'greatest respect' for.

"I don't think there's much difference between the top three or four teams in the First Division and most of the teams in the SPL," said Hughes.

I don't think there's much difference between the top three or four teams in the First Division and most of the teams in the SPL Hibernian manager John Hughes

"On any given day - especially cup day - they're more than capable of coming to Easter Road and beating us.

"We have to make sure we're spirited, our application's good and then hopefully we're in the hat for the draw.

"It's up to the players to go and use all the mind tools at their disposal to make sure they go on the pitch and take care of business."

However, the former Falkirk manager denied that the cup carried more importance than the league for Hibs.

"I want it all," said Hughes. "I've went public saying I want third (place in the SPL).

"I've said to the players, we all know the importance of the Scottish Cup, what it means to the club.

"And I've put that in the dressing room, and the reason is I'm testing them, I'm testing their character.

"What I'm trying to do at this club is build a culture, that when these games come up or we go through to Glasgow, to Parkhead or Ibrox, I know I'm going into these games with guys who will go out in these stadiums and be inspired.

"So hopefully all the answers I get between now and the end of the season are positive ones.

"We've got a few games to go, but I've said on numerous occasions, I'm delighted with where we are," he added.

The Hibs manager was also enthusiastic about how Easter Road will look following the building of a new East Stand.

"I made sure that when I got to Easter Road last week I went out on the pitch, and my first feeling was that I looked about and it was a wee bit surreal," said Hughes.

"But I let my mind just wander a wee bit and I could see that stand being up and what it would be like, and I'm sort of saying to myself if we could have European football here next year with that stand up, then fantastic, and all the boys know that."

Hughes has also been boosted by the return of striker Colin Nish to the squad following suspension.

"Nishy's been fantastic," said Hughes. "He's a better footballer then a lot of people think, scores goals works very hard, and this year he's taken wee bits and pieces on.

"You know, he'll be the one dropping back round about their sitting midfielder, things like that.

"He brings a physical presence that we maybe lack and I think Hibs are a better team when Colin Nish is in the team."

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