Hibernian FC supporters can now watch an in-depth interview with David Gray on Hibs TV!
For the first time since he was appointed Head Coach, Gray sat down to discuss a number of topics, including applying for the role, his team’s identity, knowing the players’ strengths and weaknesses, and much more.
Watch the full interview below!
Why now was the right time…
“I’d been in that position (Caretaker Head Coach) four times. Every time a new manager was appointed, I always took that time to reflect and look back on things. On reflection I knew I wasn’t ready any other time because of the challenges I faced after it. I was fortunate to be in the position where I could learn off different people. This time I felt I was at the point where I believed I could do the job, so I applied and put my case forward on why I think I deserved the job. I’m absolutely delighted the Club saw that in the same way and believe in me to take the Club forward. I’m very proud and delighted.”
Being able to hit the ground running…
“In my very first meeting with the players and the staff, I said ‘there’s no need for introductions here’. I know the players and the staff inside out and their strengths and weaknesses. We’re very lucky here to have some staff that are exceptional at their jobs, and everyone is wanting to take the Club forward. It’s important that we’re all wanting to pull the Club in the same direction every day. I’ve added to the staff by bringing my staff to the Football Club because they’ve been here before and understand the expectation and know what good looks like. We need that togetherness and core pulling in the right direction, so we know what good looks like.”
What does a David Gray Hibs side look like?
“I don’t like the word ‘philosophy’. When you’re Head Coach at this level, you have to be flexible and adaptable. On any given day anyone can beat anyone, and the challenges you face playing Ross County at home or away for example are very different. There’s an importance to be flexible and adaptable and to have a Plan A, Plan B, and sometimes even a Plan C to make sure we get results in games rather than having that fixed mindset of always playing a certain formation. I don’t think there’s a right way or wrong way to play. We will go into every game with a plan and a focus to try win every single game. We won’t look the same in terms of the shape every time, but we will have an identity and principles, so people know what my Hibs team looks like, and there will be non-negotiables within that.”
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