Preview: Dundee United vs. Hibernian - prediction, team news, lineups

Dundee United and Hibernian square off at Tannadice on Tuesday evening with both teams having avoided defeat in their opening two Scottish Premiership fixtures.

While the home side have four points to their name, Hibs have recorded back-to-back successes over Kilmarnock and Livingston respectively.

Match preview

While Hibernian have arguably been given a favourable opening schedule, they have so far taken full advantage with two victories recorded in similar style.

Five of their six goals have been scored in the opening 41 minutes, suggesting that Jack Ross is encouraging his players to throw caution to the wind while the opposition are still trying to find some match sharpness.

Although Kevin Nisbet was undoubtedly the star of the show at the weekend as he netted a hat-trick, five different players have already registered a goal or assist.

Requiring a united effort to challenge for third spot, that return bodes well for the future, and Ross will sense that there is a window of opportunity to build on their promising start with their first game against either Rangers and Celtic not due until September 19.

Like the visitors, Dundee United will be delighted with their start to the season, avoiding defeat in fixtures versus St Johnstone and Motherwell.

Despite the disappointment of failing to earn more than a share of the spoils against 10-man St Johnstone, the Terrors showed their resilience in edging out the latter by a 1-0 scoreline at the weekend.

After four years away from the top flight and under the guidance of recently-appointed boss Micky Mellon, Dundee United have fitted seamlessly back into life in the division.

Nevertheless, Mellon's biggest challenge could be finding goals when Lawrence Shankland is not present in the team, like was the case on Saturday afternoon.

While the absence of last season's top goalscorer has been put down to injury, Mellon may be keeping his eye on potential replacements should a big-money offer arrive in the coming weeks.

Dundee United Scottish Premiership form: DW

Hibernian Scottish Premiership form: WW

Team News

Given the manner of his team's win at Livingston, Ross could go with the same XI.

However, Hibs have lined up with two different formations, leaving a level of uncertainty over the selection.

Should Ross revert to a back three, Scott Allan will likely be recalled in the centre of midfield.

With just three days between the last fixture, Mellon may opt against risking Shankland's minor muscular injury.

Barring any late fitness issues, Mellon is likely to select the same starting lineup after his side's display at Fir Park.

Dundee United possible starting lineup: Siegrist; Smith, Connolly, Reynolds, Robson; Butcher; Bolton, Harkes, Chalmers; Pawlett, Appere

Hibernian possible starting lineup: Marciano; McGinn, Porteous, Hanlon, Doig; Boyle, Gogic, Newell, Horgan; Doidge, Nisbet

We say: Dundee United 1-2 Hibernian

While both teams will fancy their chances of success on Tuesday evening, we feel inclined to back the away team. Ross's side are very much on an upward trajectory, and their extra confidence in the final third could prove crucial during the latter stages of the contest.

Top betting tip

Our expert tipster partners at Sporita.com are predicting that both teams will score (BTTS - yes) in this match. Click here to find out what else they are predicting for this game and for more of their tried-and-tested football tips.BTTS Yes:data