The Ospreys and Warriors sit seventh and eighth respectively, with just one point separating them in the league standings. But a win for the Liberty Stadium side on Sunday would allow them to take a huge step toward the top six and European qualification.
But the Ospreys will be without eight of their key-men, with star-men Alun Wyn Jones, Dan Biggar, Dan Lydiate and Justin Tipuric called up, alongside James King, Aaron Jarvis, Paul James and Scott Baldwin. Influential lock Lloyd Ashley will miss the remainder of the season with a knee ligament injury, with Tyler Ardron and Hanno Dirksen also out. And Gibbes wants to see the Ospreys prospects carry them through a difficult period.
He said: “We know we have some very, very tough games, starting this Sunday with Glasgow. That’s the cauldron that we are in, so the youngsters have to step up. The pressure’s on, so we are expecting results and performances.
“The reality is they have to do this job. When you look at it in black and white, this is their job and what they are here to do. It’s time for them to stand up and deliver. That’s the challenge.”
Glasgow have 15-players away on Scotland duty ahead of their Six Nations kick-off against England. And Gibbes expects the Ospreys
“Our depth was tested during the World Cup and it’s no different now. We also have guys like Tyler Ardron missing through injury.
“But as one door closes, another one opens, and with these youngsters coming through we are witnessing another chapter in Ospreys rugby. The expectation and pressure is on them to perform and take their chances.”
