DAVID GRAY is a serious contender to become Hibs’ manager.
SunSport understands new sporting director Malky Mackay and club chiefs have placed the 36-year-old interim boss on a list of candidates to replace the sacked Nick Montgomery.
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Hibees stalwart Gray is currently in his fourth spell as a caretaker.
The former defender hung up his boots two years ago to focus on being part of the Easter Road coaching staff. Gray is highly respected within the club and adored by fans after scoring their Scottish Cup winner against Rangers in 2016 to end a 114-year wait for the trophy.
Mackay has been tasked with leading the search for a seventh manager in just five years.
And he is now fully aware of Gray’s desire to finally step up and occupy the hotseat long term.
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Last week, the one- time Manchester United youngster, who made 170 appearances and won the Championship at Hibs, said: “I’m not shying away from it.
“I believe I can do it. I’ve demonstrated I can.
“Ultimately it’s what the club want to do moving forward. If they feel I’m ready to do it and they want me to do it that’s a decision they can make.”
Hibs have seen rivals Hearts appoint Steven Naismith from within and are considering if Gray has the potential to have the same impact for them.
We told you yesterday how St Mirren boss Stephen Robinson had emerged as the new favourite for the Easter Road post according to bookmakers.
Also among the list of names were Kilmarnock gaffer Derek McInnes and a pair of ex-Old Firm managers.
Former Celtic boss Ronny Deila and Michael Beale, sacked by Rangers last October, were included in the list.
Other names that have been mentioned include Northern Ireland national team boss Michael O’Neill and Alex Neil, the former Preston North End, Norwich and Hamilton manager who was most recently at Stoke City.
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