AXED NICK MONTGOMERY admits he ultimately fell short of the targets he set himself as Hibs boss.
The 42-year-old was sacked by the Easter Road club last week after a disappointing end to the season.
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But Monty remains proud of the work he did during his nine months in Leith.
The ex-Central Coast Mariners boss gave a debut to 16-year-old Rory Whittaker and led the club to within a minute of a top six spot.
But he accepts not getting there was a major blow to all concerned.
David Gray, who worked as first team coach under Montgomery, is now front runner to replace him.
And in a classy statement issued through the League Managers Association the Englishman thanked the club for the opportunity and claimed the future is bright.
He said: “It was an honour to be appointed manager of Hibernian Football Club and to become part of a club with so much history.
“After arriving with my Assistant Manager Sergio (Raimundo) and Goalkeeping Coach Miguel (Miranda), at a time when the club had been through a difficult start to the season, I was confident that we could lift the club and help to challenge for both cups and the top six positions.
“Whilst I am proud we made the semi-final of the League Cup and the quarter-final of the Scottish Cup, I am disappointed that we narrowly missed out of the top six in the last minute of the final game.
“I am immensely proud to have given a debut to the youngest player in the club’s history, as well as four other academy graduates, and I hope they will continue their development to become first team regulars in the near future.
“I depart having met some wonderful people and witnessed the passionate fan base who showed support throughout all of the challenges the club faced during the season.
“I would like to thank all of the players and staff for their efforts during my time as manager.
“I’m sure with the secured investment from the Black Knight group and the partnerships within the group, the club can continue to grow and reach its expectations in the near future.
“I would like to thank the Gordon family for the opportunity, as well as Ben Kensell, Brian McDermott and the board of directors, and I wish the club well moving forward.”
Gray is odds-on favourite for the post with McBookie with ex-Hibee Ian Murray second favourite.
The Raith Rovers boss is in action tonight in the Premiership play-off final with Ross County.
Other names in the frame have included St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson, Alex Neil and even ex-Rangers manager Michael Beale.
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