Joe Newell faces a race against time to be fit for Hibernian’s opening Europa Conference League outing later this month.
The midfielder has been nursing a hamstring injury that forced him off in Saturday’s friendly against Europa of Gibraltar over in Spain.
Scans have detailed a ‘small muscle tear’ and ended his participation in the Easter Road side’s warm-weather training camp in Marbella.
He is expected to be out for a fortnight with the issue.
With the first leg of Hibs’ second round qualifier due to take place on July 27, the 30-year-old is now struggling to be fit in time for the tie.
Meanwhile, defender Lewis Miller will also miss Thursday’s friendly against English Premier League side Bournemouth after picking up an injury in Spain.
The Australian played the first half of the victory over Europa but has been diagnosed with a ‘small tendon issue’ in his calf and will need a week’s rest.
It is a blow for the 22-year-old, who finished last season strongly after an injury-hampered first season in Scotland following his move from Down Under.
The Australia under-23 cap managed just three league starts but is determined to prove his quality in the coming campaign.
He said: “Hopefully I can get regular game-time and I’ll be able to prove to the fans, the gaffer and myself that I can break the limits and be one of the best full-backs in the league.
“I truly believe that. That will come with consistent game-time.
“If I’m fit I think I can beat anyone on my day and I’m prepared to give 110 per cent this season.”
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