Former Hearts defender Allan McManus believes ex-pupil Kyle Magennis can play a starring role for Hibs in Sunday's Edinburgh derby.
McManus had Magennis as a kid in the St Mirren youth academy before the midfield man progressed through the ranks under current boss Jack Ross, switching Paisley for Easter Road last summer.
The Buddies youth chief, who started his career at Tynecastle, playing in maroon from 1995-98, has enjoyed watching on from afar as former protegee Magennis has made a scintillating start to the season for the Hibees.
The former Scotland U21 star has notched four goals in nine appearances after injury stalled his progress in the capital last term.
And McManus is backing Magennis to continue to shine on the city's biggest stage as Gorgie plays host to the first derby of the season this weekend.
The 46-year-old said: "Kyle’s got the bottle to deal with it, definitely. His temperament’s never been in question.
“Don’t let that fool you, though, because he’s got a fiery side in him as well.
“He’ll be really looking forward to making an impact in that game at the weekend.
“It’s a fantastic game to be involved in – 100mph with fans back in and both clubs going really well at the moment as well.
“Nobody will want to bend in the slightest.
“Kyle will only thrive in that environment.”
Working under Ross, who gave Magennis his St Mirren debut before bringing him to Easter Road, McManus is backing the midfielder to take his game on to a new level in the Scottish Premiership having already scored four goals in nine games this term.
If he maintains his high quality performances, McManus believes Magennis can emulate fellow-Ralston academy graduates Kenny McLean and former Hibee John McGinn in earning full Scotland caps.
The Buddies chief added: “He’s started the season fantastically well – playing in a very strong Hibs team under one of the best managers around, in my opinion.
“If Kyle can maintain that performance level for the remainder of the season, there’s no reason why he won’t take another step up again and in 12-18 months’ time he could be banging down the door of the Scotland national team as well.
“I’d never compare players to say they’re like John or Kenny, Kyle’s Kyle.
“Kyle’s on that same pathway as the other lads if he can have a whole season like he’s having so far.
“One thing that won’t change is his mindset – he’s a very humble man that works extremely hard.”
