David Gray dismissed by Hibernian after Tuesday home defeat

David Gray has been removed from his post as head coach of Hibernian after Tuesday's home defeat to Kilmarnock, six games into the Scottish Premiership season. The decision ends the former captain's 12-year association with the club at Easter Road.

Tuesday's 1-0 loss to bottom-of-the-table Kilmarnock leaves Hibernian ninth in the table on six points and was the club's sixth successive home league defeat, stretching back to last season. Assistants Liam Craig and Craig Samson are also leaving the club.

Gray famously led Hibs to Scottish Cup victory in 2016, heading in a stoppage-time winner against Rangers at Hampden to end a 114-year wait for a third success in the tournament. Having signed two years previously, the right-back retired in 2021 after 177 appearances and joined the coaching staff. After three short spells as interim manager, he was appointed head coach in May 2024, replacing Nick Montgomery.

He won just one of his first 15 league games but oversaw a recovery that produced a third-place finish in that season, while Hibernian were fifth last season. Both campaigns resulted in European qualification which concluded with dramatic, last-gasp Conference League play-off exits. In total, Gray managed 107 games, recording 43 wins, 35 defeats and 29 draws.

"Ultimately, this is a decision that we have not taken lightly, but unfortunately, one as a board we had to make due to the recent downturn of results and performances," said executive chairman, Ian Gordon.

"Dave has been an inspirational figure at the club during his time here, and he has been a true friend and fantastic colleague to so many," added Gordon. "On behalf of my family, I would like to personally thank him for everything he has done for us since we joined the club. "As a person, he constantly set the standard with his attitude, professionalism and general work ethic and he will be sorely missed around the building by all the players and staff. "On the pitch, he has delivered some incredible moments for our fans, and brought a level of stability and consistency that we haven't reached in recent years."

John Potter has been placed in charge for Saturday's home game with Aberdeen, and Hibernian still have a League Cup semi-final against derby rivals Hearts to contest on 1 November.