Hibernian have sacked head coach David Gray after a 1-0 home defeat by Kilmarnock left the club ninth in the Scottish Premiership.
The loss was Hibs’ fourth in six league matches this season and came against the division’s bottom side. The result also extended their run to six consecutive home league defeats, equalling a club record last set in 1920.
Gray’s dismissal comes despite Hibernian reaching the League Cup semi-finals. They were eliminated from Europe, however, after losing their Conference League play-off to Gent.
John Potter will take interim charge for Saturday’s home fixture against Aberdeen, with the club saying a new permanent head coach will be announced “in due course”.
David Gray leaves Hibernian after downturn in results
Gray was appointed on a permanent basis in June 2024, signing a three-year contract after serving four times as Hibernian’s interim manager.
The 38-year-old had enjoyed a strong start in the dugout, with Hibs securing a third-place finish in the 2024/25 campaign, while the club finished fifth last season.
His departure means Hibernian are searching for their sixth permanent manager in less than five years. Jack Ross, Shaun Maloney, Lee Johnson and Nick Montgomery had previously left the role.
Executive chairman Ian Gordon said the decision had not been taken lightly, but was necessary because of the team’s “recent downturn of results and performances”.
“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 at the football club,” Gordon said.
He added that Gray had “delivered some incredible moments” for supporters and brought a level of stability and consistency that had been missing in recent years.
Gray became a Hibernian legend in 2016 when he scored a stoppage-time winner against Rangers in the Scottish Cup final, ending the club’s 114-year wait to win the competition. He retired from playing five years ago to concentrate on coaching.
Speaking after the defeat by Kilmarnock, Gray had said he would continue working to turn the club’s fortunes around until told otherwise.
“The fans are frustrated because we’re not achieving what we need to be at this stage and winning enough games consistently, especially at home,” he said. “And I accept that.”
