Stephen Glass has been on both sides of the Aberdeen-Hibernian fixture and thinks the Dons travelling support could prove decisive tomorrow.
Former Scotland international Glass expects the visiting fans to make themselves heard at Easter Road in what could be a pivotal point in both teams’ seasons.
A win for Hibernian and they can still hope to pip the Dons into second place. However, a win for Derek McInnes’ side could all-but end the Hibees’ chances of finishing best of the rest.
Glass started his career at Pittodrie in 1994 and was in the first team for four years, before leaving for Newcastle United. He returned to Scotland, via Watford, in 2003 when he moved to Hibernian.
He scored for both teams in this encounter over the years and knows how decisive the Dons’ backing can be.
Glass said: “Aberdeen fans have always travelled well and as a visiting player there’s nothing better than seeing the away end absolutely packed out. I’m sure Derek McInnes won’t let that go unnoticed.
“I remember playing for Dunfermline at home against Aberdeen and you would have thought it was a home game for them.
“I didn’t score many but I remember getting one against Aberdeen for Hibs in a big game, which came at a turning point in our season.
“There’s always a great atmosphere at both stadiums and I expect that to be the same tomorrow.”
Glass, who now works as a coaching director for Carolina Rapids in the United States, is full of respect for the work done by both managers.
Dons manager Derek McInnes has replaced the spine of his team and taken them to second once again, while Neil Lennon has taken his newly-promoted Hibernian side to within touching distance of the European places.
Glass said: “I spoke to people a year or two ago and the biggest question for Derek was whether he could keep Aberdeen second. Doing it year on year is really impressive.
“With the money on offer down south, Aberdeen probably can’t compete but he’s showed in his dealings that he can sign players he can sell on in the future.
“Normally when you just get promoted, your first aim is to stay up. But Hibs have aimed higher and Neil is getting the best out of his players. He’s been well supported as the fans can see he cares about the club.
“The team can still play a bit but they’ve got a steel about them now.”