As the Scottish Premiership season ignites, all eyes turn to Dens Park, where Hibernian’s summer signing, Josh Mulligan, prepares for a poignant return to his former stomping ground, Dundee. This highly anticipated encounter marks not just the opening fixture for Hibs but a deeply personal moment for the young midfielder, who spent his entire career with the Dees before his recent move to Easter Road.

The atmosphere at Dens Park will undoubtedly be charged, with questions lingering over the reception Mulligan will receive from the very supporters who cheered him for years. Will they offer a warm welcome back, acknowledging his past contributions, or will a chorus of jeers greet his arrival in rival colours? Mulligan, however, appears remarkably unfazed by the potential emotional maelstrom.

Having served Dundee with dedication, Mulligan’s departure, much like that of fellow midfielder Lyall Cameron, signaled a new chapter in his career. His decision to move on was driven by professional ambition, a common trajectory for promising talents in Scottish football seeking fresh challenges and higher stakes, and this match against his old club presents an immediate test.

Despite the personal narrative woven into this fixture, Mulligan’s focus remains squarely on the task at hand. He approaches the match with a clear, business-like mindset, prioritizing Hibs’ objectives for the new campaign. His composure in the face of an early homecoming speaks volumes about his professional maturity and determination to make an immediate impact for his new team.

There’s also the intriguing dynamic of facing former teammates. While some might attempt to engage in friendly banter or psychological warfare, Mulligan dismisses the notion, suggesting his old colleagues will be equally concentrated on their own game. He anticipates any “winding up” would occur after the final whistle, contingent on the match’s outcome, rather than during the ninety minutes of intense football.

This opening Premiership clash holds significant weight for Hibs, coming swiftly after their gut-wrenching exit from the Europa League qualifiers. The disappointment of their European campaign ending prematurely has instilled a collective desire within the squad to rebound strongly and assert themselves domestically from the outset of the Scottish Premiership season.

A robust start in the league is paramount for Hibs, not only to build momentum but also to lay the groundwork for future European aspirations. Securing a strong position early in the Scottish Premiership can provide the necessary platform to challenge for continental football once again, making every point, particularly in these initial fixtures, incredibly valuable.