Hibs contender takes another giant leap on path to top job
Leading Hibs candidate David Gray has taken another major step on his journey to becoming a manager in his own right - after being accepted onto the latest UEFA Pro Licence course being run by the Scottish FA. And he’ll be studying side-by-side by with a man he hopes to face in the white heat of an Edinburgh derby head-to-head next season.
Hearts boss Steven Naismith is among the 20 coaches who took part in an introductory meet-and-greet session at Hampden this week, with the rookie gaffer still working his way through the coach education system. Interim Hibs manager Gray remains a serious contender for the post left vacant by Nick Montgomery’s sacking this month - and could be pitting his wits against familiar foe Naismith on derby duty next season.
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Hide AdHibs youth coach Darren McGregor is also among the successful applicants for the elite course run by the Scottish FA’s world-renowned coach education department. Former Celtic, Hibs and Scotland star Scott Brown – now Ayr United boss – is also chasing the top qualification in European coaching. Others on the course include ex-Liverpool and Scotland midfielder Charlie Adam, Rangers Women head coach Jo Potter and Benfica Women boss Filipa Patao, as well as Partick manager Kris Doolan.
The course, which takes a minimum of 20 months to compete, is regarded as the highest coaching qualification in world football. It’s mandatory to at least be enrolled on the course if you’re to lead a team in UEFA competition.
Gray is still among the favourites to be named as Hibs boss, possibly as early as next week, after impressing senior figures at Easter Road with his plans for the first team. He made it on to the short list of contenders being interviewed by new sporting director Malky Mackay. And he’s already given thought to pulling together a backroom staff, should he get the nod.