Chris Hogg was furious when John Hughes dropped him last month but the Hibernian captain now accepts he may have needed a kick up the backside.

Hogg was axed following the 2-0 Clydesdale Bank Premier League at Hamilton but quickly regained his place at the heart of Hughes' defence.

"I was bitterly disappointed with the decision and didn't agree with it one bit," the 24-year-old said of his spell on the sidelines.

"But, that's football and you've got to get on with these things.

"It makes you realise you need to get your finger out, really, and start performing.

"That's what I'm hoping to do, go from strength to strength."

Hogg helped Hibs keep just their second SPL clean sheet of the season in Saturday's 1-0 win over Kilmarnock.

Hughes' men have been handed plenty of plaudits for their attacking flair since the former Falkirk boss took charge this summer but keeping the goals out at the other end has proven more problematic.

By dropping the man he appointed skipper last month, Hughes appeared to be sending out a message to his entire squad.

Speaking as Hibs and Hearts came together to support a drive for new blood donors, Hogg said: "We've got to try to improve in all areas and obviously keeping them out of the net as well.

"We got a clean sheet there at the weekend against Kilmarnock, and more of them will help us to go where we want to go."

Despite clashing with his manager over last month's axing, Hogg believes lifelong Hibs fan Hughes has been a breath of fresh air at Easter Road.

"Obviously, the gaffer coming in has been a positive influence," Hogg said.

"Supporters have got right behind him coming back to the football club."

Saturday's win over Killie has left Hibs just two points behind SPL leaders Rangers going into this weekend's trip to Ibrox.

Having taken 10 points from their last four games, they are the form team in the division.

And with Rangers failing to set the SPL alight in the defence of their title, some have suggested Hibs will travel to Ibrox at a good time.

Hogg said: "It's up to us to keep our focus and not be interested in what they're doing and how they go about their business, concentrate on ourselves, and try to influence the game.

"If we can do that, I'm confident we can get a result."