Hughes's side were knocked out of the Scottish Cup by Ross County

By Brian McLauchlin

Hibs manager John Hughes believes the criticism he has received from fans since the club's Scottish Cup quarter-final defeat is all part of the job.

Hibs were knocked out by First Division Ross County in their replay in Dingwall following a 2-2 draw at Easter Road.

"It's part and parcel of being a football manager," said Hughes. "Fans are entitled to their opinion and as a manager you can never forget that.

"As long as I am here I will strive to improve everything about this club."

Ross County staged a dramatic late comeback to sink Hibernian on Tuesday night to set up a money-spinning semi-final with Celtic.

County's Scott Boyd headed past Hibs keeper Graeme Smith to snatch a historic win for the Highland side with a minute remaining.

Travelling fans were furious but Hughes insists he is immune to criticism, although he respects the right of supporters to make their feelings known.

"There has to be an understanding for the supporters - it's their club," said Hughes.

"They have to understand that you're going in the right direction, but as long as it's constructive.

"I'm honest enough to tell them where we should be. We've improved on last year and we've still got a chance to get success this year."

Hibs take on the Scottish Premier League's bottom side Falkirk on Saturday and Hughes insists that he is looking for his players to show a marked improvement on recent performances.

Fans are entitled to their opinion and as a manager you can never forget that Hibernian manager John Hughes

The Edinburgh side have just one win in their last nine matches and have slipped to fifth place in the league table behind Motherwell and Dundee United.

"The players have been tremendous for me all season and as I have said in the past I did expect a bit of a dip at some point," added Hughes.

"It was a real disappointment in the Scottish Cup against Ross County, especially with the prize that was awaiting us and the history we've got in the Scottish Cup.

"But it's done and dusted, so let's look forward and give ourselves an opportunity to stay in the top six and fight for the European spot.

"The onus is now on the players to get back to winning ways and they have the ideal opportunity to do so on Saturday.

"I don't read newspapers but I'm not aloof enough to say I don't pay attention to it.

"I've got a vision and a belief of where I want to take this club - aiming for third of fourth, challenging the Old Firm and reaching the latter stages of a cup competition."

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