David Gray shrugs off early criticism ahead of Hibernian semi-final bid

Hibernian manager David Gray insists that external noise and rumbling criticism over a testing start to the domestic campaign will not derail his focus. Despite an underwhelming opening sequence of results that has placed early pressure on the Easter Road dugout, the Hibs boss refuses to let the atmosphere affect his day-to-day preparations as the squad targets a much-needed momentum shift on the pitch.

A difficult opening stretch in the Scottish Premiership often magnifies the scrutiny on any capital manager, where demanding supporters and high expectations leave little room for a bedding-in period. For Hibernian, a club historically accustomed to competing at the sharp end of domestic knock-out football, early league inconsistencies have threatened to overshadow performances, making a strong cup run an essential vehicle for restoring confidence across the club.

Attention now pivots directly to the upcoming fixture as Hibernian chase the first semi-final appearance of Gray's managerial reign. Navigating this upcoming hurdle successfully offers the immediate prospect of silencing doubters and reshaping the narrative of their season, turning pressure into tangible progress as the knockout stakes rise.