Arthur's Column // 12th March 2024

Last week was a really good one. Let's hope the coming week is even better.

To draw 2-2 against Benfica in Lisbon was an excellent result. It's given us an excellent chance to progress to the quarter-finals.

We then followed that up with a gutsy display away at Hibs to win 2-0 in the Scottish Cup tie.

It takes us back to Hampden to play in the semi-final next month. 

The games are coming thick and fast and that is what you want as a footballer.

I'm sure it's what Philippe Clement wants, although he'll want to avoid any more injuries. 

The medical room must be as busy as it's ever been. We will not want to add to the already lengthy list.

But one player's misfortune opens the door for someone to grab a chance with both hands.

That will be the case on Thursday for the second leg of the Europa League tie.

I make us slight favourites to go through but I am not taking anything for granted. Benfica are a talented team and we must give them every respect.

However, we seem to be growing and growing and finding ways to do well on the park. 

I've been impressed with several players in recent weeks but have to mention John Lundsteam, Mohamed Diomande and Dujon Sterling.

They've given their all in recent games and have all been crucial in the positive results.

They've all chipped in with goals and that's great to see midfielders making a serious contribution on that front. 

I'm sure they will continue to lead the way and can steer the team towards a good result on Thursday.

I just hope Dujon's injury is nothing serious and that he is available for all games.

After Thursday we go to Dundee on Sunday and we need to win. We are top of the SPFL Premiership and aim to stay there.

It will be another testing 90 minutes but we know what is at stake and this is no time to take our foot off the gas.

The manager will make sure the team plays to its highest level and that will be enough to secure another important three points.