Head coach David Gray has vowed to remain at Hibernian until instructed otherwise, following the club’s sixth consecutive Scottish Premiership home defeat. The 1-0 loss to Kilmarnock at Easter Road saw George Stanger score the decisive goal in the first half, with the hosts holding on despite Kilmarnock receiving a late red card.
The result, Hibs’ fourth loss in six league matches, left them ninth in the table and drew loud boos from sections of the crowd. The reaction stood in stark contrast to the mood just days prior, when the team comfortably defeated League 1 leaders Ross County 3-0 to reach the Scottish Cup semi-final against city rivals Hearts.
Gray, a former Hibernian right-back and captain who secured the permanent managerial role in 2024 after three interim spells, acknowledged the severity of the situation but refused to step down.
“It’s clear to see, it’s not good enough in terms of the result,” Gray told BBC Scotland. “Nobody wants to hear me stand here and talk about the tactical side of the game at this moment in time. We have lost a game again at home.”
He added: “I will continue until someone tells me otherwise. I believe in my group and believe in what we’re doing. The only way it turns is by putting yourself out there, sticking together and believing in yourself and trusting your ability.”
Former Hibs midfielder Scott Allan described the upcoming match against Aberdeen as a “must-win” for Gray. Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland’s Sportsound, Allan criticized the “amateur” level of performance, noting the team lost numerous duels and allowed Kilmarnock to play through them with ease.
Former Scotland forward James McFadden echoed the sentiment, suggesting the problems were systemic. “They are not starting games well, they are having to make changes, not making an impact,” McFadden said on Sportscene. He praised Kilmarnock’s defensive organization but warned of “tough times ahead” for the Edinburgh side.
Fan sentiment appeared deeply fractured. Online comments highlighted frustration with tactics, player selection, and the overall direction of the club. Several supporters called for Gray to resign, with one urging the appointment of Neil Lennon or Steve Clarke to prevent the season from “drifting to nothing as usual.”
Criticisms also targeted the club’s playing style, with some fans describing long-ball strategies as “desperate” and calling for the departure of director of football Malky McKay alongside Gray. As the pressure mounts, the board faces increasing demands to act before the team sinks further down the standings.
Scott Allan called it ‘amateur.’ That hurts because it’s true. We’re being played around like children.
Another home loss? This isn’t just bad luck; the team looks lost. Who is actually directing this mess?
I’m shocked by the hostility toward Gray. He’s been through worse. Let’s stick together or we’ll be worse than last season.
Gray’s refusal to leave is brave, but the football is frankly awful. We need a change of tactics immediately.