David Gray’s tenure ends as Hibs stumble on a bleak Tuesday night
David Gray’s era at Hibernian came to an abrupt close after Hibs were beaten 1‑0 at Easter Road by Kilmarnock on Tuesday night, a loss that left the club ninth in the Scottish Premiership with six points from six games.
By CALUM CROWE, SCOTTISH DEPUTY CHIEF SPORTS WRITER, the club issued a statement on 16 September 2026 confirming that Gray had been relieved of his duties. Chairman Ian Gordon cited a downturn in results and performances that could no longer be ignored. Assistant coaches Liam Craig and Craig Samson also departed, with John Potter named interim manager for the upcoming Aberdeen clash.
Board reaction and immediate changes
There had been talk that the Hibernian board might have allowed Gray a final chance against Aberdeen after the international break, but the decision was taken before that fixture. The interim appointment underscores the urgency felt by the hierarchy to halt the slide. Fans were left to wonder whether any further patience could have been afforded.
Gray’s record and achievements
During his more than two‑year spell, Gray oversaw 43 wins from 107 matches in the Premiership league, a respectable return. He guided Hibernian to a third‑place finish in his first full season, securing European football, and repeated a fifth‑place finish the following term. A new contract was signed after a long unbeaten league run that suggested the side could be genuinely competitive.
Perhaps his most memorable feat came last season when he became the first Hibs manager to record three victories over Rangers at Ibrox in as many campaigns. Hibs also came within six minutes of reaching the Europa Conference League group stage before two late goals to Gent ended the tie. Those moments are likely to be remembered as the high points of his tenure.
Recent form, however, has been starkly different. A 3‑1 derby loss to Hearts at Easter Road and a tame defeat to St Johnstone preceded the 1‑0 loss to Killie, which proved the final straw. The scrutiny intensified as the club’s league position slipped to ninth with only six points from six games.
Gray’s legacy at the club remains secure thanks to his 2016 Scottish Cup heroics, where his header secured a 2‑1 win over Rangers and ended a 114‑year drought. He made 177 appearances as a player and captained Hibs through promotion and into Europe. The board’s statement acknowledged his genuine substance and lasting contribution.
While his managerial chapter has closed, the club’s chairman affirmed that Gray will always be welcomed back, noting that his Hampden heroics mean he will never have to buy another drink in Leith. The parting, though painful, reflects the harsh realities of modern football where even legends can be dismissed.