John Rankin has urged the Easter Road support to roar Hibernian to victory in Sunday's Scottish Cup clash with Rangers.The midfielder, recruited earlier this month from Inverness, is in line to make his home debut for the Edinburgh outfit in what could prove to be the tie of the round.

The 24-year-old was a second-half substitute against Hearts a fortnight ago but has been left kicking his heels since then due to the postponement of last weekend's SPL encounter with Gretna.

And he is hoping his first appearance on home soil will turn out to be a memorable one as Hibs bid to upset the odds - with a little help from their fans.

Rankin said: "It's been enjoyable so far. I'm a wee bit disappointed I've not played many games yet but that will hopefully come on Sunday.

"One of the reasons I came to Hibernian is that this is a big club, one that over the years has delivered some great football moments.

"I'm looking forward to the game and the atmosphere in the stadium, which I'm sure will be superb.

"Rangers will bring a big support but we will have the larger support and I know they will be right behind us from the start.

"That is very important for any side at any time but in particular when they take on one or other of the Old Firm."

Rankin is aware that Hibs will be up against it against Rangers, with their opponents currently on a tremendous run of form.

The Ibrox men have racked up eight consecutive victories, leading them to the top of the Premier League and into the final of the CIS Insurance Cup.

Hibs have already beaten their Old Firm rivals this season but Rangers won at Easter Road in December and in the pair's last meeting in the Scottish Cup four years ago.

However, Rankin remains hopeful that Mixu Paatelainen's outfit can perform at the peak of their abilities and pull off an upset.

He added: "We have to be at our best, everything needs to come together.

"Rangers are a good side, currently at the top of the league and now in a cup final already after their win over Hearts on Wednesday (in the CIS Cup).

"But if we can get a good start with a big home support behind us, then of course we can come through the tie."

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