Hibernian manager Mixu Paatelainen is not pinning his hopes on an Old Firm Scottish Cup final, which would open up an extra SPL European place.Hibs closed to within two points of UEFA Cup rivals Dundee United and Motherwell with their 1-0 home victory over the Steelmen on Wednesday night.

All three clubs appear set for a fight to the finish to claim third place and a passport to Europe next term, but the chances of each team will be boosted if both Rangers and Celtic reach May's cup final.

As both Glasgow sides are bound for the Champions League next season, the Scottish Cup's allocated UEFA Cup place would go to the side finishing fourth in the SPL.

It is a scenario which remains possible, with Rangers and Celtic kept apart in the semi-final draw, but Paatelainen simply refuses to look too far into the future.

The Finn's only concern is trying to pick up three points at home to Kilmarnock on Saturday, who have had their relegation fears eased by Gretna's 10-point deduction for going into administration.

He said: "We've closed the gap for Europe but nothing changes.

"We don't have our eyes on an Old Firm final, we can't control that. If we're fourth at the end of the season and that gives us a UEFA Cup place then we're happy.

"But it's out of our control and we can't do anything. We just look at our matches and what we do and concentrate on that.

"It will be difficult against Killie. I'm sure they'll come here relaxed.

"There is not too much pressure on them because obviously Gretna have been deducted all those points.

"Relegation is not an issue and they'll come here and do their best. We face a very difficult game."

Paatelainen, meanwhile, has revealed on-loan Mickael Antoine-Curier could still have a future at Easter Road given his fine form for First Division Dundee.

The striker, 25, has netted eight goals in five games for the title-chasing Taysiders since his loan switch but is out of contract this summer.

Paatelainen added: "He's doing fantastic. Big 'Mike' is a handful for any defence and he's done tremendously well which is good to see.

"He's a powerful guy with great self-belief, which you need as a striker. He's been an instant hit there.

"I wished him all the best when he left and if he could do well we'd look at the situation in the summer time.

"Obviously, he's done no harm to his chances of returning to the club and getting a new contract.

"I'm sure Dundee are interested as well. It's out of our hands really, as he is out of contract (in the summer)."

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