Alan Stubbs insists his faith in Hibernian's players remains rock solid despite the team's torrid recent run heading into Saturday's Scottish Cup semi-final.

The Easter Road side have only won two out of their last 11 matches, and face Premiership strugglers Dundee United this weekend at Hampden.

Hibs threw away a two-goal lead against ten-man Championship promotion rivals Falkirk on Tuesday. Nevertheless, Stubbs remains confident his side can get back to their best in the cup.

"I will be right behind the players no matter what. I will not doubt them" Stubbs said, "I didn't doubt them in August to February, so why should I doubt them now?

"We have been punished for silly little mistakes and we have to stop that from happening.

"But if you look at the bigger picture we have done a lot of things right."

The former Celtic defender has overseen a stagnant run of late but is adamant that his side's fortunes can turn for the better.

"Form is temporary, quality is permanent" Stubbs quipped "and when you have quality it is just a matter of time before that comes back to the fore again."

The Hibees will square up against top-flight oppositon for the 9th time this weekend, having emerged victorious in four of those outings - including a 3-0 win over Saturday's opponents Dundee United.

Stubbs said: "Our form against all Premiership teams whether it is League or Scottish Cup has been very good

"We have only had one defeat against Premiership opposition and I am hoping that stays the same on Saturday."