Hibernian can confirm that both Jason Naismith and Ryan Porteous will be out of action for a significant period.

Scans on Monday revealed the pair had, as feared, sustained serious knee injuries during Sunday’s William Hill Scottish Cup tie with Dundee United.

Jason – who has been a stand-out performer at right-back since his arrival on loan from Peterborough United – picked up a knee ligament injury and is likely to be sidelined for around six months.

Ryan, whose progress led to a first senior Scotland call-up earlier this season, faces surgery on a knee complaint of his own but is optimistic of appearing before the end of the campaign.

Two popular members of the dressing room, it goes without saying that they will be given the best possible care at the Hibernian Training Centre as they work through their respective rehabilitation programmes.

On a more positive note, we are delighted to report that Ryan has been rewarded with an improved contract.

A boyhood Hibs supporter, he has progressed through the ranks to become one of the brightest young talents in the country and that has been reflected in the improved terms offered to him on an agreement that runs until the summer of 2023.

Sporting Director Graeme Mathie said: “We are delighted to reach agreement with Ryan and his representatives to improve the terms of his contract.

“We work on the basis that the contracts for our Development players are standard and structured in a way that rewards them as they progress to make an impact in the first team.

“Ryan has worked his way to a point that he’s considered a key first-team player and we were delighted that he will continue his progression at the club for the foreseeable future."