Hibernian boss John Hughes has applauded Mark McGhee's "bravery" in putting his faith in youth ahead of Aberdeen's Clydesdale Bank Premier League visit to Easter Road on Saturday.

Dons manager McGhee has been forced to turn to youth due to financial constraints at Pittodrie but the likes of Fraser Fyvie and Michael Paton have really impressed this season.

Hughes, who has never been afraid to blood youngsters, said: "He's got about four or five good, young kids.

"Mark's a very, very brave manager. He's been brave in playing those four or five youngsters."

Stirling Smith is determined to become the next Dons starlet to break into the first team.

The 18-year-old defender has already been on the bench this season and has watched with envy as youth-team colleagues Fyvie and Mitchel Megginson have gone one step further.

"You know if you just keep working hard, you'll get a chance eventually," Smith told RedTV.

"Maybe a case of injuries and then you're in and you've just got to take your chance."