Source: Team_Talk
Rankin backs Riordan for Scotland
Despite enjoying a blistering start to the season, Riordan was ignored when the national team squad was picked for this month's crucial World Cup qualifiers with Macedonia and Holland.
The 26-year-old is arguably the most in-form Scottish striker around and will be looking to add to his tally of three goals from four matches when Hibs travel to Hamilton in the Scottish Premier League on Sunday.
Riordan has something of a bad-boy reputation but Easter Road team-mate Rankin insists he is good enough to add to the sole cap he earned more than four years ago.
"He's full of confidence - that's three or four goals he's scored in a couple of games," the midfielder said.
"He's playing well, as well as converting his chances, so if he can keep doing that, he'll probably push his way back into the national set-up."
Riordan has recovered from illness in time for this weekend's trip to New Douglas Park after being sent home from training on Tuesday.
"I think he broke a nail!" Rankin joked.
"There was a bit of a cold going about; a few of us have had it."
Keeping Riordan fit could be crucial to Hibs' hopes this season, with the forward having managed to form an instant understanding with new signing Anthony Stokes up front.
"We know if we get them a chance, nine times out of 10, they're going to take it," said Rankin, before backing Stokes to find the net following a succession of missed chances from the former Sunderland man.
"Stokesy's been a wee bit unlucky so far but once he gets one, I'm sure he'll kick on and score a few.
"You can see in training he's definitely got that in his game."
Rankin believes the quality of player Hughes is bringing to Easter Road bodes well for Hibs' bid to challenge for third place this term.
"The last two seasons, we've finished in the top six but we've been disappointed to finish sixth in both seasons," Rankin said.
"Obviously, this year, we're looking to go a lot better than top six, with the players that the manager's brought in and the strength in depth that we've got in the squad.
"If we can put all that together and get everybody singing from the same hymn sheet then I'm sure we'll kick on this season and challenge for third spot."
