David Gray

[He's here!]

I note he's been appointed caretaker for the umpteenth time.

Is he finally worth a punt as full-time boss? Done a solid enough job every time he's stepped up.

If we can't get McInnes I'd be happier to give him a go than bringing in another Maloney/Monty type.

[Doh Rae Me]

It would be a risky position for him an I've no idea if he would even want to be manager.

[SeanWilson]

I note he's been appointed caretaker for the umpteenth time.

Is he finally worth a punt as full-time boss? Done a solid enough job every time he's stepped up.

If we can't get McInnes I'd be happier to give him a go than bringing in another Maloney/Monty type.

Absolutely not. Take away sentiment and he should be away with the rest.

[Hiber-nation]

We've done well with rookies in the past....Mowbray, Stubbs. I'd be happy with him but I'll be in a huge minority. Having said that I don't think there's a chance he'll get it.

[AugustaHibs]

The next manager? He should be getting shown the door anaw.

Look at the goals we concede, the guy is meant to be a coach and was a defender, wtf is he doing in training with them?

[IFONLY]

The next manager? He should be getting shown the door anaw.

Look at the goals we concede, the guy is meant to be a coach and was a defender, wtf is he doing in training with them?

This

[The_Exile]

No. The next manager should have a proven track record, whether they know the Scottish game or not. Fed up of these rookies and high risk appointments. I'd be staggered if we go for a perceived 'cheap' option now.

[jeffers]

The next manager? He should be getting shown the door anaw.

Look at the goals we concede, the guy is meant to be a coach and was a defender, wtf is he doing in training with them?

Well he’s not and never has been the defence coach, but you bash on nevertheless.

[Itsnoteasy]

Well he’s not and never has been the defence coach, but you bash on nevertheless.

So what is his role then?

[Centre Hawf]

He wouldn't be my first choice but I think I would go that route now before I went with another EFL jobber, someone from the A-League, or some other laptop manager that has a nice powerpoint to pull the wool over our owners eyes.

At least Dave Gray could probably point to Dingwall on a map and list the pros and cons of signing 3 or 4 guys that play in this league and the threats opposition players carry just by having experience working and playing in the league. I also think he may be somewhat suited to starting a clear out.

[Vault Boy]

So what is his role then?

Set pieces

[GloryGlory]

I note he's been appointed caretaker for the umpteenth time.

Is he finally worth a punt as full-time boss? Done a solid enough job every time he's stepped up.

If we can't get McInnes I'd be happier to give him a go than bringing in another Maloney/Monty type.

No. He's been part and parcel of three, at least, failed coaching teams.

IMO, he needs to move on from Hibs and gain more experience elsewhere.

[Green forever]

Well he’s not and never has been the defence coach, but you bash on nevertheless.

To be fair he said he was a coach and a defender when he played but didn't say he was a defence coach. The implication that I took from it was that he should know a fair bit about defending.

[jeffers]

So what is his role then?

Set pieces. Sergio was responsible for the defensive side of the coaching.

[Centre Hawf]

To be fair he said he was a coach and a defender when he played but didn't say he was a defence coach. The implication that I took from it was that he should know a fair bit about defending.

Depends if his bosses ever let him take the defending part of training sessions or tactics.

[WestStandWillie]

We've already soured two relationship with a highly respected players (thankfully they seem to have healed over time) - let's not burden SDG with the job and make it a 3rd.

Lose a few games, the fans will be on his back and calling him every name under the sun. Let's just leave his legacy intact.

[500miles]

Well he’s not and never has been the defence coach, but you bash on nevertheless.

Given the different managers he's worked under, I'd be surprised if he's had a consistent role.

[Itsnoteasy]

Set pieces

Helping Joe Newell with his long throw ins.

[NC1875]

He shouldve been gone with Monty and co. A park of a few failed back room teams now.

[Carheenlea]

If we are to appoint a proper director of football. which has been suggested, then we could do a lot worse than have David Gray work alongsid.

David Gray would probably have yielded a better return than Maloney, Johnson and Montgomerie.

I’d be happy with Gray being promoted.

[Largshibby]

Set pieces. Sergio was responsible for the defensive side of the coaching.

So who coached them in how to defend set pieces?

[jeffers]

To be fair he said he was a coach and a defender when he played but didn't say he was a defence coach. The implication that I took from it was that he should know a fair bit about defending.

I think it was totally clear what the poster was meaning though. I’ve read it so many times on here and no matter how many times it’s corrected the same inaccuracy gets regurgitated. He’s never been responsible for the defensive coaching. It’s lazy and it’s wrong. As are the posts saying he’s been part of so many failed coaching teams therefore he’s culpable and should go too. Same argument about players who have been at the club for any length of time, Hanlon and Stevenson in particular as if they have been responsible for managers getting the sack.

For his own good he needs to move on unless we choose to appoint him on a permanent basis. We can’t afford to screw up another appointment, so I’m in two minds.

[He's here!]

No. He's been part and parcel of three, at least, failed coaching teams.

IMO, he needs to move on from Hibs and gain more experience elsewhere.

He's been coaching for a number of years now and must know the club better than pretty much anyone there. This must be his fifth or sixth spell as caretaker so I'm not sure what additional experience he needs.

[jeffers]

Given the different managers he's worked under, I'd be surprised if he's had a consistent role.


So who coached them in how to defend set pieces?

It’s not been. He previously worked on offensive set pieces. When he did ours were up there with the best in the league.

That is down to him and he’d accept the criticism of our failings this season. Though when you consider just how poor are defenders actually are….

[Steve20]

The next manager? He should be getting shown the door anaw.

Look at the goals we concede, the guy is meant to be a coach and was a defender, wtf is he doing in training with them?

"He should be getting shown the door anaw"

I honestly think people forget the pain of the Scottish Cup before 2016.

Now if you don't want him as manager, ok. I don't think it's time for him either. But this attitude of 'showing the door' to someone like Gray is frankly a disgrace, especially when it seems you don't know what his coaching role involves.

[HIBERNIAN-0762]

No chance

[Stonewall]

So Gray is responsible for our ***** defending even though he is not responsible for signing the players or coaching

Dearie me.

[Smartie]

We've done well with rookies in the past....Mowbray, Stubbs. I'd be happy with him but I'll be in a huge minority. Having said that I don't think there's a chance he'll get it.

I'd be happy with him.

Makes sensible choices every time he gets the caretaker gig - which I expect to continue tomorrow.

[Glesgahibby]

It’s to big a gamble
We need tried and tested
Mcinnes is a no brainier !

[Itsnoteasy]

"He should be getting shown the door anaw"

I honestly think people forget the pain of the Scottish Cup before 2016.

Now if you don't want him as manager, ok. I don't think it's time for him either. But this attitude of 'showing the door' to someone like Gray is frankly a disgrace, especially when it seems you don't know what his coaching role involves.

And what about the pain after 2016?

[HendoDelivered]

Another gamble we cannot afford to make. Would hate for that to go wrong. Now is not the time.

[NC1875]

"He should be getting shown the door anaw"

I honestly think people forget the pain of the Scottish Cup before 2016.

Now if you don't want him as manager, ok. I don't think it's time for him either. But this attitude of 'showing the door' to someone like Gray is frankly a disgrace, especially when it seems you don't know what his coaching role involves.

Sentiment FC. Give guys a job for life because we won a cup 8 years ago. Let’s give Hanlon and Stevenson new 3 year deals as well while we’re at it.

[Kentao1985]

Next appointment must be tried and tested in this league, we can't afford to gamble on another rookie manager. The last few projects have cost us an absolute fortune and fans are starting to walk away.

Sent from my moto g32 using Tapatalk

[He's here!]

Sentiment FC. Give guys a job for life because we won a cup 8 years ago. Let’s give Hanlon and Stevenson new 3 year deals as well while we’re at it.

Or he might be the right man for the job irrespective of his legendary playing status.

[A Hi-Bee]

No, not a manager.
Let him keep Legend status.

[hibee-boys]

David Gray needs to leave Hibs and gain coaching experience elsewhere. He may well return to the club in the future but I’d only want him to manage us on merit, not based on his playing contributions years ago.

[Corstorphine Hibby]

Set pieces

He makes the packed lunches?

[Smartie]

David Gray needs to leave Hibs and gain coaching experience elsewhere. He may well return to the club in the future but I’d only want him to manage us on merit, not based on his playing contributions years ago.

He's gained years of coaching experience, at Hibs, under various different managers of different styles and has had brief tastes of the managerial position - so has actually managed in this league. And in a cup final.

That's before you get onto some of the managers he played under during his playing career.

[Musselbound]

I'd be happy with him.

Makes sensible choices every time he gets the caretaker gig - which I expect to continue tomorrow.

Pity he's only got two games now but it will be interesting to see how he does. I'm certainly more optimistic about getting a decent result tomorrow night whereas it felt like it would be a certain defeat had Montgomery still been in charge.

[1875M]

The next manager? He should be getting shown the door anaw.

Look at the goals we concede, the guy is meant to be a coach and was a defender, wtf is he doing in training with them?

100%. Take away the sentiment here. Part of a back room staff that has now seen 4 managers sacked. You have to question what he is doing within the coaching set up. I’ve heard he works with the defence side of things and set pieces? Both are a shambles.

[Smartie]

100%. Take away the sentiment here. Part of a back room staff that has now seen 4 managers sacked. You have to question what he is doing within the coaching set up. I’ve heard he works with the defence side of things and set pieces? Both are a shambles.

There is some merit in the argument that if David Gray is to emerge and get the job that it would best be done at a time when a successful manager is being replaced rather than having been part of a previous man's failure, almost irrespective of his own personal culpability in that failure.

[GreenGray]

We could do a lot worse. The performance away to Aberdeen was one of our better games this season.

Look at the managers who finished in the top six outwith Celtic and Rangers this year, you don’t need a world beating coach in Scotland, fingers crossed the club realise that.

Stevie Naismith had led Hearts to third ffs.


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[Donegal Hibby]

I'd be happy with him.

Makes sensible choices every time he gets the caretaker gig - which I expect to continue tomorrow.

Same here .

Remember after the first 3 games of the season when we lost 8 goals he took charge and kept a clean sheet , winning 2-0 at pittodrie. Difference was quite something in we looked alot better organised from what we were before.

[Since452]

Another experiment is the last thing we need. Perfectly happy for him to steer the ship but for me that's it. He's been part of too many failed management setups now.

[He's here!]

We could do a lot worse. The performance away to Aberdeen was one of our better games this season.

Look at the managers who finished in the top six outwith Celtic and Rangers this year, you don’t need a world beating coach in Scotland, fingers crossed the club realise that.

Stevie Naismith had led Hearts to third ffs.


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It's a fair point. Naismith had significantly less coaching experience than Gray when he took charge at Hearts. He's gone on to do a very fine job after a sticky start, much as it pains me to acknowledge it.

[He's here!]

No, not a manager.
Let him keep Legend status.

Why is he not a manager? Been solid in the caretaker role on numerous occasions.

I'll be interested to see if he can drag a performance out of the players over the next two games.

[The Modfather]

Would be the wrong appointment. Maloney & Montgomery weren’t given time to learn on the job or even given a summer window despite being rookies when we appointed them. David Gray wouldn’t be any different, get recruitment wrong this summer and there would be calls to sack him before January as there were with Monty, regardless of any mitigation of what he inherited.

We need an experienced manager to steady the ship and begin laying the foundations of a spine to the team.

[jeffers]

Would be the wrong appointment. Maloney & Montgomery weren’t given time to learn on the job or even given a summer window despite being rookies when we appointed them. David Gray wouldn’t be any different, get recruitment wrong this summer and there would be calls to sack him before January as there were with Monty, regardless of any mitigation of what he inherited.

We need an experienced manager to steady the ship and begin laying the foundations of a spine to the team.

Get recruitment wrong again this summer and there are likely to be calls to sack whoever we appoint before January regardless of their experience.

[WeeRussell]

More sensible than the last 10 Neil Lennon threads.

[Booked4Being-Ugly]

We should have binned Monty after bottom six was confirmed and given SDG that last 5 games to see what he could do.

[Lago]

I note he's been appointed caretaker for the umpteenth time.

Is he finally worth a punt as full-time boss? Done a solid enough job every time he's stepped up.

If we can't get McInnes I'd be happier to give him a go than bringing in another Maloney/Monty type.
Nope to me has never shown any courage or ambition to move from his Hibs comfort zone.

[WestCoastHibby]

Absolutely not. Take away sentiment and he should be away with the rest.

Absolutely; legend but he’s been part of the coaching staff for several years. A coaching staff that has been rank rotten.

[Hiber-nation]

Another gamble we cannot afford to make. Would hate for that to go wrong. Now is not the time.

Anybody is a gamble. McInnes would be a gamble with his hun connections. Mowbray and Stubbs were gambles.

[He's here!]

Anybody is a gamble. McInnes would be a gamble with his hun connections. Mowbray and Stubbs were gambles.

The 'boring football' myth is a weak enough stick to beat McInnes with but trying to saddle him with a 'hun' connection is just desperate. The guy actually turned down the Rangers job.

[Smartie]

It's a nice touch in the tweet put out by Pie and Bovril regarding the current odds for the managerial job at Hibs to acknowledge Gray's knighthood.

[Lago]

More sensible than the last 10 Neil Lennon threads.
Yeah but not by a lot:greengrin

[I'm Spartacus]

Anyone with a bad word to say about SDG is GTF, the greatest club legend of our lifetime giving us the greatest moment.

Yeah sound, hound him out too.

[Donegal Hibby]

Honestly think there would be more chance of us all getting behind SDG than any other manager who's been suggested on here .
https://www.scotsman.com/sport/football/hibs/hibs-hero-backed-to-land-next-managers-job-thats-what-he-should-look-like-4628338

[Niffy]

He makes the packed lunches?
Chuckle

[GreenCastle]

It’s weird to think Naismith has managed to get Hearts 3rd with limited experience as a manager. Took the B team previously and did average with them.

David Gray isn’t the worst shout - the only worry is his status - but that would be the risk he would have to take if he wanted to take it on.

Seems well liked and respected - think having a good assistant would be key.

[jeffers]

I personally wouldn’t rule it out.

[JohnM1875]

I personally wouldn’t rule it out.

If he wins the next two then you probably can’t rule it out. That’ll be a good job done by him every time he’s been asked to step in, dealing with a team that’s been **** and got a manager sacked. Has to count for something?

Especially if the player recruitment won’t be solely down to him and it’s purely a head coach role.

I’d never have wanted something to succeed so much in my life if it happens.

[jeffers]

If he wins the next two then you probably can’t rule it out. That’ll be a good job done by him every time he’s been asked to step in, dealing with a team that’s been **** and got a manager sacked. Has to count for something?

Especially if the player recruitment won’t be solely down to him and it’s purely a head coach role.

I’d never have wanted something to succeed so much in my life if it happens.

I don’t think he’s done himself any harm when he has stepped up. I think he speaks quite well too. Straight and to the point.

I think there are other factors at play too. One being the financial side of things.

[sleeping giant]

He speaks really well.
Sounds like a manager.

[Fergos]

I can see the board thinking this would be a galvanising manoeuvre given todays news….

[OsloHibs]

100%. Take away the sentiment here. Part of a back room staff that has now seen 4 managers sacked. You have to question what he is doing within the coaching set up. I’ve heard he works with the defence side of things and set pieces? Both are a shambles.

And who is the fitness coach? We're not as fit as other teams, they're running rings round us in every game. The whole backroom staff have to go.

[Cyborg Ninja]

Time for SDG to move on & keep his integrity from that day intact. Mixu & frank got pelters for some of their results after their ‘promotions’ which was unfair tbh. They should have moved on too & kept their ‘hero’ status unblemished so to speak.

[B.H.F.C]

I think the appointment of McKay increases the chances of Gray getting the job, if he wants it. I just can’t see whoever is appointed being from too far left field now.

I’d still be surprised if Gray became our manager but I wouldn’t rule it out completely.

[staunchhibby]

Bring Scott brown in to assist sir David gray

[SteveHFC]

Starting to warm to idea of SDG he's got to get a chance at some point. No point going to shark infested waters of lower leagues to get experience were you can get eaten alive.

Marv would be an excellent assistant as another player who loves club and speaks very well.

[Donegal Hibby]

If SDG were to get it ,I'd like to see somebody abit older and experienced to be his assistant if that makes any sense. Abit like when Collins got the job and he had Tommy Craig sort of scenario.

[Smartie]

If SDG were to get it ,I'd like to see somebody abit older and experienced to be his assistant if that makes any sense. Abit like when Collins got the job and he had Tommy Craig sort of scenario.

I'm warming to this idea more.

I get what you mean with the Tommy Craig suggestion but I actually thought Tommy Craig ended up being a pretty dodgy choice for Collins and didn't actually help him as much as he needed.

The Jimmy Nicholl episode of "Sacked in the morning" was a very good listen - he covers the subject of assistant managers in that.

[Hiber-nation]

I personally wouldn’t rule it out.

Good to hear.

[Mikey_1875]

Pains me to say it but I find him pretty dull and uninspiring in a management role. While his responsibilities under various managers are unclear he has played a part in them and I would want a bigger change around the place.

[.Sean.]

Anybody is a gamble. McInnes would be a gamble with his hun connections. Mowbray and Stubbs were gambles.Eh 😂😂

Whats that got to do with anything, would someone with Celtic connections be just as big a gamble or?

[.Sean.]

Starting to warm to idea of SDG he's got to get a chance at some point. No point going to shark infested waters of lower leagues to get experience were you can get eaten alive.

Marv would be an excellent assistant as another player who loves club and speaks very well.
Marv would be on a hiding to nothing with a selection of our fans now surely with his past, look at the reaction Mackay has got :rolleyes:

Oh wait

[Donegal Hibby]

I'm warming to this idea more.

I get what you mean with the Tommy Craig suggestion but I actually thought Tommy Craig ended up being a pretty dodgy choice for Collins and didn't actually help him as much as he needed.

The Jimmy Nicholl episode of "Sacked in the morning" was a very good listen - he covers the subject of assistant managers in that.

Most check the Jimmy Nichol interview out , thanks .

He knows the club inside out and is well respected by the players so I'd be quite happy with him getting the job tbh . I think the other good thing about him getting it is surely we'd all be behind him 100% too .

You might be right though you get what I mean maybe if he had someone experienced that had managed before would be more beneficial to him rather than someone inexperienced.

Thought he spoke well in his pre-match interview.

https://youtu.be/NCM0Sn-HORk?si=qqbHeILnjMoSfsJl

[SteveHFC]

Marv would be on a hiding to nothing with a selection of our fans now surely with his past, look at the reaction Mackay has got :rolleyes:

Oh wait
Ah never thought of that I forgot everything needs to go through social media court before it's approved

[flash]

I'm warming to this idea more.

I get what you mean with the Tommy Craig suggestion but I actually thought Tommy Craig ended up being a pretty dodgy choice for Collins and didn't actually help him as much as he needed.

The Jimmy Nicholl episode of "Sacked in the morning" was a very good listen - he covers the subject of assistant managers in that.

Tommy Craig and John Collins just make me think of the infamous "ventriloquist dummy" interview.

[Hiber-nation]

Eh 😂😂

Whats that got to do with anything, would someone with Celtic connections be just as big a gamble or?

Ye ken fine 😂

[Unseen work]

It is funny how we can think of potential managers, who would do well etc when in reality we just don’t know.

Steven Naismith is the prime example, not many hearts fans wanted him and look at the job he is doing.

Gray at least would know a lot of people in Scottish football, especially players, know the standards of the club and type of player we need and also know what to expect from games and a style of play that is needed.

[James70]

Stanton, Blackley and Sauzee, all Hibs legends who didn't cut it in the manager's chair. We need a manager with previous experience in the top job.

[worcesterhibby]

David Gray is a defender who has been on the coaching staff since he retired...since then ( and particularly this year) our defending has been dire. If he was so good at his job and had the right force of personality to be a manager, surely he would have sorted things out ?

[jeffers]

David Gray is a defender who has been on the coaching staff since he retired...since then ( and particularly this year) our defending has been dire. If he was so good at his job and had the right force of personality to be a manager, surely he would have sorted things out ?

Maybe if he ever coached the defence he would have.

[hibee-boys]

We require a fresh start and that includes any member of coaching staff that has been present over the xxxx show of the past few years. No offence to SDG but if he was a master tactician I wish he would’ve piped up to the last 3 managers with ideas. If he did, and his views weren’t respected or requested ,then it would make you wonder why bother hanging around.

[500miles]

Maybe if he ever coached the defence he would have.

Under jack Ross and Maloney I think we had the best defensive record outside the OF as well. Didn't hit the skids there until LJ.

[TrinityHFC]

Stanton, Blackley and Sauzee, all Hibs legends who didn't cut it in the manager's chair. We need a manager with previous experience in the top job.

Stubbs and Collins the last two managers to deliver cups didn’t have top job experience before. Then there’s Mowbray who delivered one of our most entertaining teams.

Some of our worst failures were very experienced before us.

You just never know unfortunately!

[jeffers]

Under jack Ross and Maloney I think we had the best defensive record outside the OF as well. Didn't hit the skids there until LJ.

Funny how that never gets brought up when posters are quick to put the boot into him. Not that I’m saying he ever was responsible for coaching the defence but it would at least put some balance to the argument about him being culpable if those posters who blame him for our awful defending would acknowledge when it was good…..

[WeeRussell]

Funny how that never gets brought up when posters are quick to put the boot into him. Not that I’m saying he ever was responsible for coaching the defence but it would at least put some balance to the argument about him being culpable if those posters who blame him for our awful defending would acknowledge when it was good…..

A very good point.

[Carheenlea]

His 11th game in charge -

On course to win 5 (obviously can’t rule anything out with Hibs but looking good to do so)
Drawn 2 and lost 4.

Wins on Sunday and he puts himself in a strong position with a win percentage that should see a club comfortably in the top half of league.

[The Tubs]

His 11th game in charge -

On course to win 5 (obviously can’t rule anything out with Hibs but looking good to do so)
Drawn 2 and lost 4.

Wins on Sunday and he puts himself in a strong position with a win percentage that should see a club comfortably in the top half of league.

And on all these occasions, the team has been on terrible runs of form.

[LunasBoots]

Sets his team's up well, gets Scottish football, gives a **** about Hibs, we are also probably looking for a young manager too work with Malky so I don't see why not, might be a bit raw and a gamble but it's no like the supposed experienced men have worked

[Northernhibee]

There’s a very good case to appoint him.

[jeffers]

Not doing his prospects of getting it permanently any harm. We could do worse.

[Trinity Hibee]

Would he want the job? I don’t get the impression he is someone who’d want to be a manager.

I don’t think it’s the right time at Hibs for him to be getting his first job as nice as it would be to see him emulating what Naismith has achieved across the road

[Nicho87]

Should have been given the reins as soon as the st Mirren game finished months ago

Making a case but I still think he’d be classed as a project, we need experience

[Northernhibee]

Would he want the job? I don’t get the impression he is someone who’d want to be a manager.

I don’t think it’s the right time at Hibs for him to be getting his first job as nice as it would be to see him emulating what Naismith has achieved across the road
When is the right time? The fifth spell he’s taken charge, the tenth, the hundredth?

He’s managed the team on a few occasions now, know the team, knows the league. It’s honestly now or never for him now.

[jeffers]

Would he want the job? I don’t get the impression he is someone who’d want to be a manager.

I don’t think it’s the right time at Hibs for him to be getting his first job as nice as it would be to see him emulating what Naismith has achieved across the road

He absolutely does want it.

[Trinity Hibee]

When is the right time? The fifth spell he’s taken charge, the tenth, the hundredth?

He’s managed the team on a few occasions now, know the team, knows the league. It’s honestly now or never for him now.

The right time would after he’s been permanent manager at another club in my eyes. Wouldn’t want another Sauzee situation with a club legend

[Trinity Hibee]

He absolutely does want it.

Good to hear in that case

[007]

SDG wins the Hibs manager of the season award.

[Scooter]

Just said this on the PM board. I don't think I can see a real reason not to give him a shot at it. It pains to say but Naismith has done well with them over the road with less experience than Gray.

Even McCabe at Airdrie

[Paul1642]

The right time would after he’s been permanent manager at another club in my eyes. Wouldn’t want another Sauzee situation with a club legend

Perhaps but we have no right to him as our manger once he leaves. We don’t just let him take another mangers job then automatically get him back should we come calling.

I agree that now isn’t the time for a rookie manager though. A bit of experience is needed to steady the ship and then maybe Gray on the back of a successful manager moving on to better things (when didn’t that last happen) rather than taking over a club needing a large rebuild.

[jeffers]

SDG with Mackay supporting him ?

[GreenCastle]

I would be happy with Gray 100%.

But he’s coaching staff and assistants are crucial.

As mad as it sounds - someone like Alan Stubbs as his assistant ?

Naismith coached Hearts B team for a full lowland league season - he did struggle in that league. He also started off badly with Hearts.

It’s a risk with his legacy but it’s an appointment that wouldn’t be too expensive - would get fans support back onside and if he does well it will be brilliant.

[we are hibs]

Not for me.

Sent from my SM-A405FN using Tapatalk

[greenlex]

SDG with Mackay supporting him ?
SDG & McCabe dream team?

[jeffers]

I would be happy with Gray 100%.

But he’s coaching staff and assistants are crucial.

As mad as it sounds - someone like Alan Stubbs as his assistant ?

Naismith coached Hearts B team for a full lowland league season - he did struggle in that league. He also started off badly with Hearts.

It’s a risk with his legacy but it’s an appointment that wouldn’t be too expensive - would get fans support back onside and if he does well it will be brilliant.

John Doolan as his assistant.

[HFC 0-7]

It’s a no from me. The mess we are in we need an experienced manager. We have taken too many ‘chances’ with our last appointments.

[Unseen work]

We’ve won 11 games this season in the league.

Gray has won 2/2 of them.

Under Johnson and Monty our biggest issue this season was the defence. Gray has came in as interim twice and on both occasions got a clean sheet.

Makes you think.

[Hibernian Verse]

Didn’t mess about with his first team selection dropping the unstoppable Marcondes for hard working Campbell and it proved to be the right thing to do.

[LunasBoots]

It’s a no from me. The mess we are in we need an experienced manager. We have taken too many ‘chances’ with our last appointments.

Going by what alot of pundits are saying we are setting up a structure for a young manager.....

[Hibernian Verse]

It’s a no from me. The mess we are in we need an experienced manager. We have taken too many ‘chances’ with our last appointments.

Lee Johnson was experienced

[Basildon Hibs]

Going by what alot of pundits are saying we are setting up a structure for a young manager.....

How would they know?

[Hibee Daft]

If he wants it and puts his name forward... its a yes from me

[K-Zazu]

Not for me.

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

John Doolan as his assistant.

Ha I never saw this bit just posted on the new manager thread that doolan and taff could come back to support SDG

[ChuckNor]

Two best league performances this season were both under SDG. It’s a no brainier for me. With Malky above him I think it works.

Give it Gray.

[Pretty Boy]

I suppose you have to consider that because all his stints in charge are after a manager has been punted he gets that new manager bounce repeatedly. If you go back to Lennon our first result after a manager was sacked was:

St Mirren 1 - 3 Hibs (Eddie May)
St Johnstone 1 - 4 Hibs (Eddie May)
St Mirren 1 - 1 Hibs (David Gray)
Aberdeen 0 - 2 Hibs (David Gray)
Hibs 3 - 0 Motherwell (David Gray)

How will it look 6 months down the line when we start hearing the players are pulling the 'don't like the training' stunt and you see a downing off tools like we witnessed on Sunday? I'm not against him getting the job but it has to be a holistic process, not just based on a half decent record as caretaker.

[Victor]

He obviously knows what he is doing. When he brought Obita on for Maolida it left us with an attacking threat on the left, but an extra defender when Motherwell attacked. First time I have seen Hibs with clear defensive lines this season.

[GreenCastle]

SDG & McCabe dream team?

McCabe doesn’t have any coaching badges supposedly.

Not sure what qualifications Gray has ?

He also has Cup final experience when we lost to Celtic (still getting over that late chance we had to make it 2-2).

[J-C]

McCabe doesn’t have any coaching badges supposedly.

Not sure what qualifications Gray has ?

He also has Cup final experience when we lost to Celtic (still getting over that late chance we had to make it 2-2).

I think Gray has his pro license.

[He's here!]

I suppose you have to consider that because all his stints in charge are after a manager has been punted he gets that new manager bounce repeatedly. If you go back to Lennon our first result after a manager was sacked was:

St Mirren 1 - 3 Hibs (Eddie May)
St Johnstone 1 - 4 Hibs (Eddie May)
St Mirren 1 - 1 Hibs (David Gray)
Aberdeen 0 - 2 Hibs (David Gray)
Hibs 3 - 0 Motherwell (David Gray)

How will it look 6 months down the line when we start hearing the players are pulling the 'don't like the training' stunt and you see a downing off tools like we witnessed on Sunday? I'm not against him getting the job but it has to be a holistic process, not just based on a half decent record as caretaker.

Gray also won at St Mirren in the first game after Maloney was sacked.

[CapitalGreen]

Im not against DG getting the job but only a few weeks ago most people were saying these are meaningless games we can’t learn anything about the manager from. Now they are being held up as evidence for DG getting the job?

[McGruber]

Im not against DG getting the job but only a few weeks ago most people were saying these are meaningless games we can’t learn anything about the manager from. Now they are being held up as evidence for DG getting the job?

Exactly, I'd be fine with Gray getting a chance but worth noting it's not on a great deal of evidence and a lot of teams regardless get results immediately after a manager gets fired regardless of who takes charge. I'd be up for it but it's a gamble

[Donegal Hibby]

We’ve won 11 games this season in the league.

Gray has won 2/2 of them.

Under Johnson and Monty our biggest issue this season was the defence. Gray has came in as interim twice and on both occasions got a clean sheet.

Makes you think.

5 goals for and 0 against after Aberdeen away and now Motherwell at home. Defensive looked far more organised in them two games and probably the whole team as a unit too . Midfield tonight you couldn't say any of them were bad, all played well in fairness . SDG hasn't done his chances any harm of getting it .

[jeffers]

Im not against DG getting the job but only a few weeks ago most people were saying these are meaningless games we can’t learn anything about the manager from. Now they are being held up as evidence for DG getting the job?

In isolation I’d agree. He’s consistently set us up well whenever he’s been asked to step up though.

[LaMotta]

He absolutely does want it.

I'd be comfortable with Gray if he was appointed. I understand the reservations people have however......


There are often highly competent individuals working underneath absolute idiots above them in organisations, offering insight, being ignored and learning from the idiocy above them. Gray has worked under 3 idiots in a row, and I've no doubt he would have done a better job than all three. Every time Gray has stepped up as interim manager he has set the team up well, got half decent results and has spoke well in front of the camera.

If the club felt he was ready, and if there was significant support from senior pros and others in the game having witnessed his coaching methods, the way he deals with players and behind the scenes style then I'd 100% back that. And he would have the experience of big mad suited and booted Malky.

Darren McGregor beside him to make the bench much better looking and much tougher during touchline melees.:cb

[flash]

SDG and big Daz with Marsh as goalkeeping coach.

Pretty sure that would be the hardest bench in the league if nothing else.

[JohnM1875]

I’m fully onboard. He’s now my first choice

[B.H.F.C]

Gray also won at St Mirren in the first game after Maloney was sacked.

He did. Also drew at St Mirren first game after Ross was sacked though.

[EdinMike]

The big question is. Does SDG want to do it !? I’m sure a few interim-ships ago he said he didn’t want to start managing yet.

[HFC 0-7]

Lee Johnson was experienced

Not in Scotland though. Taking Gray who hasn’t managed and has just been in charge for a few games would be madness. He has no experience when hibs are crying out for someone that knows the league and has experience managing.

[Donegal Hibby]

Grays my first choice :aok:

[jeffers]

I’d like to see McInnes get it, but I just can’t see it happening so I’m coming round to the idea of SDG.

[JohnM1875]

He did. Also drew at St Mirren first game after Ross was sacked though.

He’s come in and done well every time for me. That’s coming into a team that’s been **** and just sacked a manager. Each time he’s picked the players up and got them playing for him.

[Vault Boy]

I’d be happy to see Gray get his chance. Seems to be well thought of as a coach.

[jeffers]

The big question is. Does SDG want to do it !? I’m sure a few interim-ships ago he said he didn’t want to start managing yet.

Yeah he does.

[Heisenberg]

If he gets us winning games it’ll be better than anyone else we could appoint doing it, on the flip side if it goes tits up I’ll be devastated that the club will have to sack him. He’s worked under several different managers so will have picked up plenty from them, both good and bad.

I’m warming to it, especially given Mackay is in to help with the squad rebuild. McInnes still the clear choice for me though.

[Gordy M]

Giving the job to a caretaker is a funny one. There are probably more examples of it not working, Barry Robson at Aberdeen, OGS at Man Utd, the boy at Motherwell, Stevie Hammell, St J...cant remember his name, even Naebadges across the road, im not entirely convinced he is universally liked.....in saying that i like the way Gray sets his teams up. We always look pretty solid. I dunno, its a 50/50 for me.

[worcesterhibby]

Maybe if he ever coached the defence he would have.

You maybe know more than me about the coaching set up. If he never coaches the defence then obviously my point is invalid.

[Smartie]

It’s a big yes from me.

[jeffers]

You maybe know more than me about the coaching set up. If he never coaches the defence then obviously my point is invalid.

He doesn’t. He never has.

[Greenio]

Im not against DG getting the job but only a few weeks ago most people were saying these are meaningless games we can’t learn anything about the manager from. Now they are being held up as evidence for DG getting the job?

This is the problem.

If we'd taken a beating tonight we wouldn't have this call for him to get it.

All I've read on here the past while has been no more experiments.

But, I don't know. Feel like we need as much Hibs at Hibs as we can get just now and he is that.

[Mikey_1875]

Don’t think his stint post Maloney was too clever with poor results at Livi and an especially shocking performance at Dundee. It would be silly to say he hasn’t done well when called upon this season but I think there are some short memories and people getting carried away with tonight and the Aberdeen game imo.

It’s one we can’t afford to get wrong and I don’t think anyone has really seen enough of him to make a confident call on. I would add to that, if MM is leading the recruitment then he will not know too much of SDGs coaching style or ability over his time here so who would be recommending him? IG and Kensell?

[Billy Whizz]

Don’t think his stint post Maloney was too clever with poor results at Livi and an especially shocking performance at Dundee. It would be silly to say he hasn’t done well when called upon this season but I think there are some short memories and people getting carried away with tonight and the Aberdeen game imo.

It’s one we can’t afford to get wrong and I don’t think anyone has really seen enough of him to make a confident call on. I would add to that, if MM is leading the recruitment then he will not know too much of SDGs coaching style or ability over his time here so who would be recommending him? IG and Kensell?

The squad Maloney was given and when he left was dire. I doubt Pep could’ve got a tune out of them

[TrinityHFC]

Not in Scotland though. Taking Gray who hasn’t managed and has just been in charge for a few games would be madness. He has no experience when hibs are crying out for someone that knows the league and has experience managing.

Are they?

Stubbs and Collins won cups without managing before. Tony Mowbray.

Butcher and Williamson come under experienced and knew the league.

We just need the right person.

[jeffers]

Don’t think his stint post Maloney was too clever with poor results at Livi and an especially shocking performance at Dundee. It would be silly to say he hasn’t done well when called upon this season but I think there are some short memories and people getting carried away with tonight and the Aberdeen game imo.

It’s one we can’t afford to get wrong and I don’t think anyone has really seen enough of him to make a confident call on. I would add to that, if MM is leading the recruitment then he will not know too much of SDGs coaching style or ability over his time here so who would be recommending him? IG and Kensell?

The first thing SDG does is set us up properly. It’s a big start.

The same could be said for a lot of the candidates you’d imagine MM will be considering in that he’ll not necessarily have first hand experience of them.

[Mikey_1875]

The squad Maloney was given and when he left was dire. I doubt Pep could’ve got a tune out of them

I agree with you but the same team stuck 4 past St Johnstone a few days later. I just think when making a decision on our new manager we should be using a lot more evidence to be as confident as possible it’s the right pick rather than the 11 games mostly in the bottom six in patches over 3 years under SDG.

[LewysGot2]

TBF my Hibs manager of the season :greengrin

[TrinityHFC]

TBF my Hibs manager of the season :greengrin

The two most complete performances we’ve had domestically.

[Mikey_1875]

The first thing SDG does is set us up properly. It’s a big start.

The same could be said for a lot of the candidates you’d imagine MM will be considering in that he’ll not necessarily have first hand experience of them.

He certainly has in the games this season and I thought his subs in the Aberdeen game were spot on.

You could call me more nervous about SDG becoming manager than against it because I think this is probably our biggest appointment since relegation post Butcher. It would obviously be amazing for him to carry the club to success as a manager and player. I’d prefer a more experienced type though but know it comes with no guarantees and we have had experienced failures and successful rookies before.

I mentioned earlier in the thread that I find him quite dull and uninspiring (not a “people catcher” if you will) but that is personal preference and he would of course get my full backing as a club legend if he got it.

[GreenGray]

Said it earlier in this thread, you don’t need some world beating modern thinking coach to do well in Scotland.

Someone who has experience of the game up here and who gets the club would do for me.

Fans desperately need some positivity to get behind.

I think he’s the man for the job.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[jeffers]

He certainly has in the games this season and I thought his subs in the Aberdeen game were spot on.

You could call me more nervous about SDG becoming manager than against it because I think this is probably our biggest appointment since relegation post Butcher. It would obviously be amazing for him to carry the club to success as a manager and player. I’d prefer a more experienced type though but know it comes with no guarantees and we have had experienced failures and successful rookies before.

I mentioned earlier in the thread that I find him quite dull and uninspiring (not a “people catcher” if you will) but that is personal preference and he would of course get my full backing as a club legend if he got it.

I absolutely share your reservations.

I think he’s a tough, no nonsense sort of guy. He set standards as a player, he tried to as a coach. Players respect him and they clearly play for him.

[Trinity Hibee]

Another big performance he deserves credit for was the league cup final against a good Celtic side. We had a right good go at a time we weren’t on the best of runs

[BILLYHIBS]

Starting to swing towards SDG

We cannot afford for these jokers to appoint another dud who can talk the talk but cannot walk the walk then walk away with compo

Whoever appointed the last two needs fired imho

SDG with a Hibs minded management bubble and MM in the background beats Livvy job’s a goodun

No brainier really if it doesn’t work out it doesn’t work out but got faith in him

[Iain G]

Starting to swing towards SDG

We cannot afford for these jokers to appoint another dud who can talk the talk but cannot walk the walk then walk away with compo

Whoever appointed the last two needs fired imho

SDG with a Hibs minded management bubble and MM in the background beats Livvy job’s a goodun

No brainier really if it doesn’t work out it doesn’t work out but got faith in him

He has also been part of several management teams today have failed. Hope we take a good look at who else is available in the market before we take a gamble on a head coach has less than ten games experience.

[BILLYHIBS]

He has also been part of several management teams today have failed. Hope we take a good look at who else is available in the market before we take a gamble on a head coach has less than ten games experience.

Agree felt the same way but was impressed last night would have to be the right one with years of management experience preferably in the SPL but cannot see us getting McInnes and Pep Ange and Ancelotti are not available

The fact SDG can get a tune out of Sunday’s no shows and they obviously wanted to play for him puts him firmly in the frame let’s see if he can keep it going versus Livvy

We need to get the next appointment spot on

[Carheenlea]

A win on Sunday would give him a win percentage across his times as caretaker considerably higher than Montgomerie, Johnson and Maloney, and ahead of Jack Ross too.

Over a season that’s a win percentage that has you fighting for third and in amongst the latter stages of cups.

[JimBHibees]

SDG with Mackay supporting him ?

On the face of it sounds like a decent partnership. One potential concern may be McKay is a very strong character and may want to run the show. As long as clear parameters around who does what then dont see there being a huge issue. Would provide experienced support for him also given Malkys back catalogue of experience if shared would help given some of the ownership models he has worked under. To be honest why not a guy who knows the club and gets it plus experienced support. Makes sense to me to be honest.

[JimBHibees]

The two most complete performances we’ve had domestically.

Undoubtedly

[wookie70]

The balance of the team was so much better last night. Triantis and Campbell worked well and gave us a spine for once. Boyle was back and Hanlon was excellent. SDG set up a team that was always going to work and compete. That hasn't been the case for lots of games this year

[JimBHibees]

Didn’t mess about with his first team selection dropping the unstoppable Marcondes for hard working Campbell and it proved to be the right thing to do.

A key decision imo

[BILLYHIBS]

Another big performance he deserves credit for was the league cup final against a good Celtic side. We had a right good go at a time we weren’t on the best of runs
Celtic were praying for the final whistle with 20 minutes to go plus they scored two dodgy goals after we switched off after PH gave us the lead :greengrin

[Albert Kidd 86’]

The balance of the team was so much better last night. Triantis and Campbell worked well and gave us a spine for once. Boyle was back and Hanlon was excellent. SDG set up a team that was always going to work and compete. That hasn't been the case for lots of games this year
Just goes to show that overthinking things in Scottish football can lead to chaos.

The last few managers have attempted to ignore the Scottish games intrinsic nature and paid the price.

we are not competing in the Spanish/German/English top flight where money can buy any player at any time.I much prefer watching spl to the others as it still retains that grassroots quality the others do not.

Sir David Gray represents what Scottish football is all about, and I reckon with backing from MM and his Scottish football experience, we could be on to something.

In short, Sir David Gray’s time has come, just like in 2016.

[Not In The Know]

The two most complete performances we’ve had domestically.


Are the players just bawbags or does he make a difference? Is it the new manager bounce the game after they feel they have let the old one(s) down. Tbh I don’t know.

[Since452]

If Montgomery hadn't been such a complete disaster I'd have maybe been ok with giving him a shot. We don't know how much that clown has set us back. I think we have to go for a bit of experience this time and lay some solid foundations.

[Trinity Hibee]

Just goes to show that overthinking things in Scottish football can lead to chaos.

The last few managers have attempted to ignore the Scottish games intrinsic nature and paid the price.

we are not competing in the Spanish/German/English top flight where money can buy any player at any time.I much prefer watching spl to the others as it still retains that grassroots quality the others do not.

Sir David Gray represents what Scottish football is all about, and I reckon with backing from MM and his Scottish football experience, we could be on to something.

In short, Sir David Gray’s time has come, just like in 2016.

Completely agree with the point you make about managers coming here and overthinking/overcomplicating things. I hate to say it, but hearts have shown in the last few years you just need to be solid with good players in certain positions to be moderately successful here. Jack Ross did it a few seasons ago too

[jeffers]

Are the players just bawbags or does he make a difference? Is it the new manager bounce the game after they feel they have let the old one(s) down. Tbh I don’t know.

I don’t think they are bawbags. He sets the team up properly, plays the team to their strengths, doesn’t have them doing things they aren’t comfortable or struggle with. Monty’s style may have worked if he’d got in the players to play that way (I’m far from convinced) but he didn’t have them.

The players trust and respect SDG.

[He's here!]

Giving the job to a caretaker is a funny one. There are probably more examples of it not working, Barry Robson at Aberdeen, OGS at Man Utd, the boy at Motherwell, Stevie Hammell, St J...cant remember his name, even Naebadges across the road, im not entirely convinced he is universally liked.....in saying that i like the way Gray sets his teams up. We always look pretty solid. I dunno, its a 50/50 for me.

Naismith has benefited from a sensational season from Shankland but from December onwards there's no question he's done a fine job there. Hearts fans should be careful what they wish for if they're not convinced.

Two of our best managers this century, Mowbray and Stubbs, had never been managers before they came to ER.

[Trinity Hibee]

Saw this online. Gray’s record:

This season
Villa - 3-0 L (A)
Aberdeen - 2-0 W (A)
Motherwell - 3-0 W (H)

After Maloney went
St Mirren - 1-0 W (A)
Livi - 1-0 L (A)
Aberdeen - 1-1 (H)
Dundee - 3-1 L (A)
St Johnstone - 4-0 W (H)

After Ross
St Mirren - 1-1 (A)
Dundee - 1-0 W (H)
Celtic - 2-1 L (Cup Final)

[Phil MaGlass]

Get McInnes in now then have Gray take over when he leaves.

[Hibs3-2]

I was wary before but i think under MM, it is SDG time to lead us

[DIXIHIBS]

Gray has been coaching and working behind the scene for years now so not a complete novice. He also knows how the club works, or doesn't. With an experienced assistant it might just work.

[flash]

Even that League Cup final he got the best out the team as we were excellent that day and deserved at least extra time.

I would be happy for him to get his chance particularly now he has Malky McKay to lean on.

[Since452]

Get McInnes in now then have Gray take over when he leaves.

That would be my preference. I'd rather Gray took over from a position of strength.

[Scooter]

I read a lot of posts saying, they'd rather having gray taking over if we had been doing well and not in a mess. You could spin that and say, is it not better that he does take over when we are in a mess because our expectations are a littler lower. He takes over a team that was finishing 3rd/4th that's what we would expect. Takes over now, I'm sure the majority would be happy with top 6 easily secured

[Paul1642]

I didn’t think the time was right for Gray but I’m coming around to the idea slightly. I do however see how fickle this it’s after one decent game 😂

It’s probably because it’s been a few months since I enjoyed a Hibs game prior to last night.

[jacomo]

Give him the job.

To say ‘he’s not ready’ when you see rookie managers do well at much bigger clubs is ridiculous.

Its about nous and personality, much more than experience.

[jacomo]

Just goes to show that overthinking things in Scottish football can lead to chaos.

The last few managers have attempted to ignore the Scottish games intrinsic nature and paid the price.

we are not competing in the Spanish/German/English top flight where money can buy any player at any time.I much prefer watching spl to the others as it still retains that grassroots quality the others do not.

Sir David Gray represents what Scottish football is all about, and I reckon with backing from MM and his Scottish football experience, we could be on to something.

In short, Sir David Gray’s time has come, just like in 2016.


:agree:

[Smartie]

Give him the job.

To say ‘he’s not ready’ when you see rookie managers do well at much bigger clubs is ridiculous.

Its about nous and personality, much more than experience.

Re experience - this is often the biggest argument against Gray.

OK, he's never had a managerial or "head coach" job.

But what about the experience he's got? Playing career under various different managers? He's had an apprenticeship coaching at our club, a fairly extensive one now. He's got a dozen games now, actually doing the job, so he's had a trial run - and managed us in a cup final. He's coached under various other managers in a short space of time and been able to pick up on what he does and doesn't like about each of those. Having been at the club for a decade now, he knows exactly what the club is all about from the inside - no need to get to grips with what "the Gordons" are all about or find out why the support act the way the do in certain situations.

Every appointment is a risk and I totally acknowledge that he's never held the main job in his own right. Jose Mourinho dedicated his adult life to learning the skills required to take the big job and needed an opportunity. Maybe Gray has been quietly working towards getting such an opportunity at some point, making sure he has the required skill set when the time comes?

So I don't actually think he lacks experience, I believe the opposite, whilst fully accepting that there is a "gap" there, so to speak.

[DIXIHIBS]

Re experience - this is often the biggest argument against Gray.

OK, he's never had a managerial or "head coach" job.

But what about the experience he's got? Playing career under various different managers? He's had an apprenticeship coaching at our club, a fairly extensive one now. He's got a dozen games now, actually doing the job, so he's had a trial run - and managed us in a cup final. He's coached under various other managers in a short space of time and been able to pick up on what he does and doesn't like about each of those. Having been at the club for a decade now, he knows exactly what the club is all about from the inside - no need to get to grips with what "the Gordons" are all about or find out why the support act the way the do in certain situations.

Every appointment is a risk and I totally acknowledge that he's never held the main job in his own right. Jose Mourinho dedicated his adult life to learning the skills required to take the big job and needed an opportunity. Maybe Gray has been quietly working towards getting such an opportunity at some point, making sure he has the required skill set when the time comes?

So I don't actually think he lacks experience, I believe the opposite, whilst fully accepting that there is a "gap" there, so to speak.

Good post.

[MrSmith]

Re experience - this is often the biggest argument against Gray.

OK, he's never had a managerial or "head coach" job.

But what about the experience he's got? Playing career under various different managers? He's had an apprenticeship coaching at our club, a fairly extensive one now. He's got a dozen games now, actually doing the job, so he's had a trial run - and managed us in a cup final. He's coached under various other managers in a short space of time and been able to pick up on what he does and doesn't like about each of those. Having been at the club for a decade now, he knows exactly what the club is all about from the inside - no need to get to grips with what "the Gordons" are all about or find out why the support act the way the do in certain situations.

Every appointment is a risk and I totally acknowledge that he's never held the main job in his own right. Jose Mourinho dedicated his adult life to learning the skills required to take the big job and needed an opportunity. Maybe Gray has been quietly working towards getting such an opportunity at some point, making sure he has the required skill set when the time comes?

So I don't actually think he lacks experience, I believe the opposite, whilst fully accepting that there is a "gap" there, so to speak.

Great post 👍 I am certainly in the camp to give SDG the job, given the last three incumbents, how much worse could he do?

[Jock O]

Are the players just bawbags or does he make a difference? Is it the new manager bounce the game after they feel they have let the old one(s) down. Tbh I don’t know.

I think the most interesting thing about last night was the first period of the first half in both games was almost identical, Hibs well on top but not able to score, they went closer last night but by the penalty there was a bit huffing and puffing going on as there was Sunday, with nothing going in. We got a break with the penalty last night which was expertly dispatched and a weight lifted off their shoulders. On Sunday we lost a goal and almost every player collapsed into a heap of self pity.

Gray definitely made two good influential changes but not convinced the style was that much different prior to the goals. The players just kept playing well last night.

That's obviously still a problem that we need to overcome but if it is purely a confidence matter, as I think has been hampering Boyle for example, then how we move on from that needs to be carefully considered. There is no doubt Montgomery's time was up, but last night I would argue proved that, to misquote Johnson's most overused albeit normally incorrectly used phrase, fine margins are everything at our level, and its that we need to be looking at in future teams, how we ensure we are on the winning side of these margins more than losing.

[Unseen work]

I’ve been impressed with Gray the last 2 occasions but I’m still not sold on the idea.

Last night for example he had the bonus of it being Hanlon and Stevensons last game. I think some players would have tried that bit harder for them last night.

He’s also coming into teams who are feeling down and picking them up by injecting some confidence in them. Not an easy thing to do but can he maintain it for months let alone years as the main man?

Look at Robson at Aberdeen, started brilliant and then ended very poorly.

Peter Leven has done an unbelievable job at Aberdeen too;

Dundee 1-0 Aberdeen
Motherwell 0-1 Aberdeen
Aberdeen 2-1 Ross County
Livingston 0-0 Aberdeen
Aberdeen 0-0 Dundee (Aberdeen got a red card)
Aberdeen 3-3 Celtic (lost on penalties)
Aberdeen 1-0 Motherwell
Aberdeen 1-0 St Johnstone
Hibernian 0-4 Aberdeen
Aberdeen 5-1 Livingston

10 games, 6 wins, 2 draws and 2 defeats.

Could he maintain it over a season?

I do think there’s an argument for Gray as I don’t think he’d over complicate things and I think he’d recruit good Scottish players or ones that know the league similar to Ross.

I’m not sure he’s quite the leader or ‘people catcher’ yet though (although he’s miles ahead of Montgomery and Maloney in this respect). I could be off as I only see the odd interview and im sure as a captain he was a leader, but he’s still a bit young and don’t know if he’s quite ready to be the leader as a manager.

I do think he maybe needs to move away from first team coach to managing the Development team or something like that so he’s involved in picking tactics etc week in week out, like Naismith did with the Hearts B team.

[Cropley10]

How does any manager get his first job? Hopefully Kensell stops trying to run the club based on what he reads on here or Twitter. But, I doubt it.

[I'm Spartacus]

How does any manager get his first job? Hopefully Kensell stops trying to run the club based on what he reads on here or Twitter. But, I doubt it.

Totally my guess.

You work at a youth level, your stats show your success, the players talk, you coach some players who go on to greater things, you get a move up a league or 2, you repeat that process until someone takes at punt at the top level, then in Scotland once your name is in that circle you will get touted for every job the Daily Ranger can through your way.

[Lago]

How does any manager get his first job? Hopefully Kensell stops trying to run the club based on what he reads on here or Twitter. But, I doubt it.
It will be Mackay's decision

[Lago]

Totally my guess.

You work at a youth level, your stats show your success, the players talk, you coach some players who go on to greater things, you get a move up a league or 2, you repeat that process until someone takes at punt at the top level, then in Scotland once your name is in that circle you will get touted for every job the Daily Ranger can through your way.
Or Micky Stewart the new guru of Scottish football :greengrin

[I'm Spartacus]

Or Micky Stewart the new guru of Scottish football :greengrin

Hahaha then there is that big fish :wink:

I do think we should be monitoring way way in advance, we should have the likes of Ian Murray tracked way before we need to be on the hunt for a Manager. Imagine Aberdeen were in the market and Killie lose McInnes for good money (good money meaning they can be in the same market as us), yet we've not been ahead of the game, we are so shortsighted and reactive.

See the volunteer scouts, imagine we gave 2 people the role of Coaching Scouts, who track the next potential Managers coming through.............. it's actually not a bad idea now I've typed it!

[Since452]

I don't think Malky will hang his hat on Gray. He'll want someone tried and tested.

[Mikey_1875]

I’ve been impressed with Gray the last 2 occasions but I’m still not sold on the …..

Good post and it sums up a lot of my concerns about giving it to Gray.

For me it’s about asking what tools SDG has in the locker to be considered for the job at a critical time.

How does he deal with negative momentum after 3/4 games without a win?

How do his sides react to going a goal down after having all the possession and chances?

Does he know when to make changes or hold his nerve when we are passing it around the back in the 50th minute against Livi at home at 0-0 and the fans are starting to grumble from the stands?

How does he manage a squad rebuild and set up a pre-season to get his message across?

He might have all the answers to these questions and be able to implement it successfully, we don’t know. MM might be able to help him with some parts. Personally I would prefer someone at this time who has went the course and distance and has previous (successful) experiences to call upon.

[MWHIBBIES]

Warming to this idea, especially with a pre season and league cup to get his ideas across. Important to implement a strong coaching staff around him.

[Since452]

It wouldn't be my choice but I'd be 100% behind him if it happened. I think he'd unanimously have every Hibs fan backing him which wouldn't be the case with some of the other names mentioned. For that reason alone i can see the appeal.

[Lago]

What was Gary's coaching role at Hibs, keep reading he a no defencive duties so what?

[Unseen work]

What was Gary's coaching role at Hibs, keep reading he a no defencive duties so what?

I imagine as part of a first team coach it will be implementing the drills Montgomery wants from time to time.

For example he might be told to take a passing drill or to think of a drill to based on something they saw that went wrong from the following game. So a drill to play out from the back, get through a deep defensive line etc

[Smartie]

Good post and it sums up a lot of my concerns about giving it to Gray.

For me it’s about asking what tools SDG has in the locker to be considered for the job at a critical time.

How does he deal with negative momentum after 3/4 games without a win?

How do his sides react to going a goal down after having all the possession and chances?

Does he know when to make changes or hold his nerve when we are passing it around the back in the 50th minute against Livi at home at 0-0 and the fans are starting to grumble from the stands?

How does he manage a squad rebuild and set up a pre-season to get his message across?

He might have all the answers to these questions and be able to implement it successfully, we don’t know. MM might be able to help him with some parts. Personally I would prefer someone at this time who has went the course and distance and has previous (successful) experiences to call upon.

These are fair concerns.

Re stuff like having the answers to fan restlessness when 0-0 with Livi - is there not potentially an advantage to someone having played in that environment, coached in that environment and having had a decade to think about an answer? Does someone who has managed 500 games in either the English Championship or league one necessarily be more likely to have the answer and not just think the fans are being unreasonable and need to get a grip because a point in that game might not be the end of the world?

Could the same not be said for some of the other questions, where the solution in Portugal, Australia or England may not necessarily be relevant to Scotland? And then, is the solution at St Mirren, Airdrie or Dundee necessarily the same as at Hibs? Are these problems even someone with "experience" will necessarily have had to find the answers to in other environments?

[GreenPJ]

Has he ever expressed desires for the top job (here or anywhere else)?

[Mikey_1875]

These are fair concerns.

Re stuff like having the answers to fan restlessness when 0-0 with Livi - is there not potentially an advantage to someone having played in that environment, coached in that environment and having had a decade to think about an answer over someone who has managed 500 games in either the English Championship or league one who would be 3 months into the job before realising that it's "a thing" and not just the fans being unreasonable and having to get a grip because a point in that game might not be the end of the world and finding a solution to the problem not that big a deal?

Could the same not be said for some of the other questions, where the solution in Portugal, Australia or England may not necessarily be relevant to Scotland? And then, is the solution at St Mirren, Airdrie or Dundee necessarily the same as at Hibs? Are these problems even someone with "experience" will necessarily have had to find the answers to in other environments?

Good points as well and LJ is the most recent example of someone who would have ticked a lot of those boxes yet we have still fallen foul. Hopefully with MM recruiting we have someone who also knows the intricacies of Hibs, Scottish football and the wider game to recruit accordingly. I was certainly impressed with his interview about finding someone who is strong in all his key competencies rather than just one or two, might be easier said than done actually finding that person though.

If it turns out SDG is the best man at the end of that then I will give him full support of course. Not an easy one and I’m glad it’s not me making the decision anyway :greengrin

[jeffers]

Has he ever expressed desires for the top job (here or anywhere else)?

He applied previously. I think it was pre Johnson appointment.

[jeffers]

What was Gary's coaching role at Hibs, keep reading he a no defencive duties so what?

It was offensive set pieces when we had one of the best if not the best stats in the league. Latterly it’s been both.

[wookie70]

SDG just made us harder to beat last night. I guess most decent coaches would work out that having so many players that prefer attacking and use their energy to do that is a risk defensively. SDG gave the defence cover with Triantis who sits deeper than NMW and is a better passer and retainer of the ball, lost a very poor defensive player in Marcondes and sacrificed a little ability for the work rate, movement and end product of Campbell. Lewis is also a bit deeper than Obita and defends much better so we were already more likely not to concede with little change in our ability to score and more strength and character on the field. The shape was much better and we got close to Motherwell all over the pitch making it hard for them.

If we were contemplating sacking Montgomery it should have happened at the split and that would have gave us a free look at SDG over 5 games. He has now had 4 brief managerial spells and for me he looks like he would be at the least competent. That would be a step up from half the managers we have had over the last few years. I dare say it depends on how much of what MM is saying will come to pass. McInnes is essentially excluded in the way he describes the set up he wants to create so we may be in a Stubbs situation. SDG is similar in that he has good coaching knowledge, experience of course and distance, a winner and has huge respect in the game. Until we know who is in the field it is impossible to make a judgement

[Jones28]

It’s time for SDG to take his rightful place as head coach. If not now when?

Naismith has been given time at hearts and look at what they’ve accomplished after a shaky start.

An experience head like Doolan alongside SDG with MM is a strong team imo.

[Jim44]

I would give DG a one year contract to see how things pan out. How any new manager works with MM is vitally important and I don’t think an experienced manager, like McInnes for example, would relish such a set up. I’d rather, in the first instance, we try someone ‘nearer home’, rather than a ‘project manager’.

[WeAreHibs]

Has anyone won the Scottish Cup as a player and as a manager/coach before?

Saint David Gray

[MWHIBBIES]

Has anyone won the Scottish Cup as a player and as a manager/coach before?

Saint David Gray

Id imagine quite a few. Neil Lennon and Alan Stubbs have.

[WeAreHibs]

Id imagine quite a few. Neil Lennon and Alan Stubbs have.

Aye of course! What a fud. I'll calm my excitement right down.

[Jim44]

Has anyone won the Scottish Cup as a player and as a manager/coach before?

Saint David Gray


Id imagine quite a few. Neil Lennon and Alan Stubbs have.

Maybe I’m mistaken but I thought WeAreHibs meant doing it with the same team. :dunno:

[Willis1875]

Maybe I’m mistaken but I thought WeAreHibs meant doing it with the same team. :dunno:

Neil Lennon

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Neil Lennon

Jock Stein, Billy McNeil, John Greig and Giovanni Van Brockenhurst also.

[A Hi-Bee]

Could be a good shout, but I still remember others such as Pat Stanton, and Le God, did not end well.

[Lago]

I imagine as part of a first team coach it will be implementing the drills Montgomery wants from time to time.

For example he might be told to take a passing drill or to think of a drill to based on something they saw that went wrong from the following game. So a drill to play out from the back, get through a deep defensive line etc
Thanks

[Lago]

It was offensive set pieces when we had one of the best if not the best stats in the league. Latterly it’s been both.
Thanks

[Lago]

Could be a good shout, but I still remember others such as Pat Stanton, and Le God, did not end well.
And John Blackley

[Victor]

And John Blackley

To be fair, with regard to Blackley and Stanton, at that time I don’t think you needed coaching badges, to be a manager, just a sheepskin coat and a trilby.

[He's here!]

To be fair, with regard to Blackley and Stanton, at that time I don’t think you needed coaching badges, to be a manager, just a sheepskin coat and a trilby.

Pat did his coaching badges at Largs alongside Alex Ferguson IIRC. I'd wager Blackley did similar as he was very keen on the coaching side of things and modelled himself on Eddie Turnbull (who was one of the many excellent coaches who hosted things at Largs). Sauzee, though, went straight from playing to the manager's chair which obviously didn't end well.

Harsh to claim Stanton and Blackley were failures in the role. They had barely a penny to rub together for signings at that time and the club had fallen a long way from where it was when both were at the peak of their playing careers. Keeping us clear of relegation was a decent achievement. Training facilities were also next to non-existent and it was usually case of travelling by minibus to whatever piece of parkland was free. Both also brought through a number of cracking young players, including Mickey Weir, John Collins, Gordon Hunter and Paul Kane.

[I'm Spartacus]

Serious question, what the hell could David Gray have implemented in such a short space of time that NM couldn't do in his whole time here?

Do they just fear playing for DG and know his stature at the club?
0% effort for NM due to lack of respect?
Is it just effort, is that all this comes down to?

[DIXIHIBS]

Serious question, what the hell could David Gray have implemented in such a short space of time that NM couldn't do in his whole time here?

Do they just fear playing for DG and know his stature at the club?
0% effort for NM due to lack of respect?
Is it just effort, is that all this comes down to?

I think team selection played a big part. For example Gray picked Campbell over Marcondes...team player over talent. Stevenson over Obita,..defence over attack. As a result we looked more solid as a team. Best team doesn't always mean playing the 11 best players but 11 players who play well together. Just my opinion.

[Donegal Hibby]

Maybe hinting he wants the job 🤔
https://news.stv.tv/sport/interim-hibernian-boss-david-gray-says-i-100-believe-i-can-do-the-job

[Northernhibee]

The more I think about it, the more David is my preferred person to get the job. Knows the club, knows the league, knows the strengths and weaknesses of the club, and a cracking attitude.

[AgentDaleCooper]

The more I think about it, the more David is my preferred person to get the job. Knows the club, knows the league, knows the strengths and weaknesses of the club, and a cracking attitude.

same. it's ideal timing as well, as he'd have a full pre-season.

[B.H.F.C]

I now think Gray will get the job.

[Unseen work]

Serious question, what the hell could David Gray have implemented in such a short space of time that NM couldn't do in his whole time here?

Do they just fear playing for DG and know his stature at the club?
0% effort for NM due to lack of respect?
Is it just effort, is that all this comes down to?

Think it was a couple of things

Hanlon and Stevensons last home game made everyone raise their game and got fans onside

Replacing Marcondes with Campbell added alot more energy

He made us a lot more compact defensively and not as exposed.

[hibsfan7]

No HIBS no with HIBS record of sacking managers he would get 1 season sacking the player that SCORED THEGREATEST GOAL I OUR HISTORY no

[04Sauzee]

If it was Gray, I wonder who he would have as his assistant and who he would have on his coaching team.

[jeffers]

I now think Gray will get the job.

:agree:

[ChuckNor]

Yep. A lot depends on Sunday for him! He’s my choice regardless.

[cam75]

If it was Gray, I wonder who he would have as his assistant and who he would have on his coaching team.

Darren mcGegor ?

[raeburnhibs]

:agree:

It would certainly be consistent for Hibs to appoint someone clearly not the best candidate, to take a risk, to go leftfield

[jeffers]

It would certainly be consistent for Hibs to appoint someone clearly not the best candidate, to take a risk, to go leftfield

Maybe of those available he is the best candidate ?

[Donegal Hibby]

If it was Gray, I wonder who he would have as his assistant and who he would have on his coaching team.

I wondering that in who would be at the club that he would pick , maybe McGregor? . Or is there someone else from his Utd days too ? .

If he gets it and he'd be my preferred choice now I still think maybe a more experienced ex manager would be beneficial to him starting out .

[raeburnhibs]

Maybe of those available he is the best candidate ?

Maybe, but I'd be surprised. I wouldn't be surprised if Hibs decide to go left field again though, that would be consistent

[Lago]

I now think Gray will get the job.
And I would give him to January before the knives were out with calls to remove

[jeffers]

Maybe, but I'd be surprised. I wouldn't be surprised if Hibs decide to go left field again though, that would be consistent

I‘M not so sure appointing him is left field. He’s done well whenever he’s stepped up. Knows the club, knows Scottish football. Players clearly respect him and play for him. In Mackay he’s got experience there to support him.

I was in the McInnes camp, but I’m warming to the idea of appointing SDG.

[H18 SFR]

I personally don’t want him to at this time. Far too big a rebuild for him. I’d want someone to come in, be successful building a team, move on to a bigger club after a few year of improvement and hopefully success and then Gray takes over a successful team.

[B.H.F.C]

I‘M not so sure appointing him is left field. He’s done well whenever he’s stepped up. Knows the club, knows Scottish football. Players clearly respect him and play for him. In Mackay he’s got experience there to support him.

I was in the McInnes camp, but I’m warming to the idea of appointing SDG.

I think McKay coming in will have increased Gray’s chances. I’m still not sure what I’d think of it. One thing for sure, if he got it and managed to start well, the support would properly get behind him. None of our recent managers have ever been able to get any momentum or goodwill behind them. Gray has the goodwill already, few results and it would be a different place.

[.Sean.]

:agree:
A hunch or?

[Northernhibee]

I personally don’t want him to at this time. Far too big a rebuild for him. I’d want someone to come in, be successful building a team, move on to a bigger club after a few year of improvement and hopefully success and then Gray takes over a successful team.

I kind of think the opposite, taking over from a successful team can be a tougher job. Gray would be coming in to take over a team who leak goals, and can be a bit blunt in attack. No matter what he works on there’s scope to improve.

Stubbs took over a shambles and that worked in his favour IMO.

[PPZPOL]

I personally don’t want him to at this time. Far too big a rebuild for him. I’d want someone to come in, be successful building a team, move on to a bigger club after a few year of improvement and hopefully success and then Gray takes over a successful team.

Maybe this is better timing from his point of view though, he must fancy his chances of making the team better than the last couple of useless manager we’ve had. I think the fact he’s been about the dressing room means he’ll be ahead of the curve of who he thinks we should bin and the rebuild can start now. I shudder every time I think of a new manager giving the “clean slate” nonsense after he comes in.

I’ve now decided if he wants it now, it should be his.

[PPZPOL]

I kind of think the opposite, taking over from a successful team can be a tougher job. Gray would be coming in to take over a team who leak goals, and can be a bit blunt in attack. No matter what he works on there’s scope to improve.

Stubbs took over a shambles and that worked in his favour IMO.

100% - just posted the same. He surely can’t do any worse, it’s not exactly taking over from a free flowing football team who have everyone on the edge of the seat.

[H18 SFR]

Maybe this is better timing from his point of view though, he must fancy his chances of making the team better than the last couple of useless manager we’ve had. I think the fact he’s been about the dressing room means he’ll be ahead of the curve of who he thinks we should bin and the rebuild can start now. I shudder every time I think of a new manager giving the “clean slate” nonsense after he comes in.

I’ve now decided if he wants it now, it should be his.

I think the first thing he would do would be to sign Stevenson and Hanlon on a deal. I honestly believe that.

[Victor]

According to Malky they are looking for a First Team Coach. I think SDG fits that description perfectly. Let him concentrate on forming, training and picking a winning team and leave all the rest of the managerial stuff to the Sporting Director. Obviously he should have input into which players come to the Club, but things like contracts and dealing with agents shouldn’t be his problem.

[CockneyRebel]

Could be a good shout, but I still remember others such as Pat Stanton, and Le God, did not end well.


Had they done any coaching before taking over? SDG has had a few years now. I am not suggesting that's all you need but kinda bridges the gap. Experience is another matter and a few newbies have done ok. It is a gamble, especially with our recent choices. Only Maloney was untried out of our latter managers although he had a high profile coaching background.

[hibee_girl]

I kind of think the opposite, taking over from a successful team can be a tougher job. Gray would be coming in to take over a team who leak goals, and can be a bit blunt in attack. No matter what he works on there’s scope to improve.

Stubbs took over a shambles and that worked in his favour IMO.

I agree with this. If not now for Gray then when?

Plus I think he’d bring Hanlon and Stevenson back :greengrin

[Scooter]

I kind of think the opposite, taking over from a successful team can be a tougher job. Gray would be coming in to take over a team who leak goals, and can be a bit blunt in attack. No matter what he works on there’s scope to improve.

Stubbs took over a shambles and that worked in his favour IMO.
This is how I see it. Expectations are lower

[H18 SFR]

I agree with this. If not now for Gray then when?

Plus I think he’d bring Hanlon and Stevenson back :greengrin

This is my worry, that a full and frank rebuild won’t happen. Maybe a clean slate for McKirdy, give Jair a chance to see what he can do. Maybe tweak who plays further forward in terms of JDH and Newall. We’ve not seen that much of Wollacott, do we stick with him and give him the season to see if he’s got it to be number one. Rocky has some good moments at times, so we could try and play him and Hanlon together to tighten things up…

You get my point.

[04Sauzee]

Gray certainly knows what we have and what we need.

[hibee_girl]

This is my worry, that a full and frank rebuild won’t happen. Maybe a clean slate for McKirdy, give Jair a chance to see what he can do. Maybe tweak who plays further forward in terms of JDH and Newall. We’ve not seen that much of Wollacott, do we stick with him and give him the season to see if he’s got it to be number one. Rocky has some good moments at times, so we could try and play him and Hanlon together to tighten things up…

You get my point.

I wouldn’t worry too much about that. Gray has it in him to be ruthless when he has to be. I very much doubt he’d keep players around just in case.

[H18 SFR]

I wouldn’t worry too much about that. Gray has it in him to be ruthless when he has to be. I very much doubt he’d keep players around just in case.

Does that not contradict your post that he would re-sign Stevenson and Hanlon?

[hibee_girl]

Does that not contradict your post that he would re-sign Stevenson and Hanlon?

No, he knows exactly what they bring to the club.