Ever wonder what it takes to turn a team’s season around? St Mirren’s Stephen Robinson has made his pick for Manager of the Year, and his choice might surprise you! Find out why David Gray’s leadership at Hibs earned him such high praise, transforming their Scottish Premiership fortunes and guiding them to Europe. What’s your take on Gray’s incredible impact?

Stephen Robinson, the esteemed manager of St Mirren, recently offered a compelling endorsement of David Gray’s leadership at Easter Road, boldly declaring the 37-year-old as his choice for manager of the year during the highly competitive 2024-25 campaign. This commendation comes amidst a season where Gray showcased remarkable strategic acumen and resilience, transforming Hibernian’s fortunes in the Scottish Premiership.

Gray’s impact on the Hibees has been nothing short of transformative. Despite a challenging start last autumn that saw the club languishing at the bottom of the league, he orchestrated a dramatic resurgence. This incredible turnaround culminated in Hibs securing a commendable third-placed finish, a testament to his tactical prowess and ability to galvanize his squad under pressure.

The stellar performance under Gray’s stewardship propelled Hibernian into the prestigious Europa League qualifiers, marking a significant achievement for the club and its fanbase. Such a rapid ascent from the league’s lower echelons to European contention highlights the profound influence Gray has had since taking the helm, demonstrating a clear vision and unwavering determination.

Robinson, speaking from St Mirren’s Ralston training ground, elaborated on his decision to back Gray for the coveted managerial award. He emphasized the “real character” and “real nous and know-how” displayed by Gray in navigating the team through adversity, ultimately steering them towards a successful outcome that few predicted earlier in the season.

The St Mirren gaffer also acknowledged the inherent strengths within the Hibernian squad, noting their significant depth. He cited examples of Hibs’ ability to rotate key players, making “eight or nine changes” as seen in their Premier Sports Cup fixture against Livingston, and still fielding a “very competitive team.” This observation underscores the quality of players Gray has at his disposal and his skill in managing such resources effectively.

However, the journey for Hibs in European competition proved to be a challenging one. Following their domestic success, the team recently faced a heartbreaking exit from the Europa League qualifiers. A thrilling encounter against Legia Warsaw saw them suffer a 5-4 aggregate defeat after extra time in Poland, despite a hard-fought 3-3 draw in the second leg, showcasing the fine margins at the elite level of football.

This nuanced perspective from Stephen Robinson provides valuable insight into the competitive landscape of Scottish football and the demanding nature of management. His recognition of David Gray not only celebrates individual achievement but also highlights the strategic battles and character-defining moments that unfold within the Scottish Premiership each season.

Gray’s journey from a challenging start to guiding Hibs to European football serves as an inspiring narrative, demonstrating that leadership, tactical flexibility, and an unwavering belief in one’s team can yield remarkable results, solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising figures in Scottish club management.