Hibernian

Watch all the highlights as Hibs score three past Kilmarnock.

We asked for your views on Hibernian's 3-0 win against Kilmarnock.

Here's what some of you said:

Kenny: Much better. A lot of good football played and we never looked like we were ever in trouble. We now should be full of confidence going into the Motherwell game next week and if we can pick up a result we will have a great chance of a fourth-place finish. We looked good.

George: Great result. Very good first 30 minutes. However, we faded after that and, up to our third goal in the 94th minute we looked flat. Ante Suto, while knocking in goals, doesn't look like he can lead the line.

Defence looked solid with Grant Hanley back in there. We missed Jamie McGrath and Daniel Barlaser when they went off. Overall a satisfactory result. Now, we need to push on though.

Sandy: We've got a star on the rise in Owen Elding. Man of the match in an excellent clean-sheet display.

Willie: First 20 minutes, Hibs were great then lost their way a bit and let Killie come back into the game, thought the defence marshalled by Hanley were excellent, three points and goal difference helped.

John L: Another Jekyll and Hyde performance, 25 minutes of terrific football then for some reason we allow Kilmarnock to dominate the second half.

John M: A pretty comprehensive win and what an excellent start, two goals in the first twelve minutes. When did that last happen? January's players having a great impact. Hibs will have quite a say where the championship ends up.

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Owen Elding's goal after just 13 seconds helped Hibernian ease to victory over Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership and strengthen their push for European football.

Read the full match report here.

Let us know your thoughts here.

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Hibernian head coach David Gray: "That's the dream start for any coach, you want to start as well as you can. We wanted to get the crowd behind us immediately.

"In the first 20 minutes we found ourselves 2-0 up, deservedly so, then Kilmarnock came into the game. From then, Killie got momentum off the back of [their disallowed goal].

"The second half I'd like us to be better. We gave them a bit of confidence, but it's hard to win games of football and we restricted them to very little.

"We know we can play better. We can't be inconsistent. I'm certainly pleased that we've won 3-0 at home, clean sheet.

"When it's only 2-0, you think it's okay but if the opposition get the next goal, it massively changes. We've been in this position before. So it's pleasing that players did everything I asked them to do.

"You can pride yourself on the clean sheet and defensively we were very strong. Grant has just come back in, Jordan Obita hasn't played for a bit. So we were a wee but tired but there's a lot to build on.

"At this stage of the season, it's all about results and making sure that we control what we do."

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Hibernian hope to have Rocky Bushiri involved after a delayed return from qualifying for the World Cup with DR Congo in Mexico.

Felix Passlack, Miguel Chaiwa and Owen Elding have shaken off knocks, but Rudi Molotnikov and Josh Mulligan (both ankle) are unavailable.

Kilmarnock boss Neil McCann has no new injury concerns. Tyreece John-Jules (quad), Djenairo Daniels (knee) and Matty Kennedy (hip) remain out.

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Hibs head coach David Gray was delighted to see defender Rocky Bushiri seal his place at the World Cup - even if his personal congratulations have been delayed.

The centre-back was part of the DR Congo squad that ended a 52-year wait to return to the big stage when they beat Jamaica in a play-off on Tuesday.

The nation was called Zaire the last time they took part and their highlight was keeping an opening defeat to Scotland down to 2-0.

The authorities declared a last-minute public holiday on Wednesday and Gray was still awaiting Bushiri's return as he previewed Saturday's Premiership visit of Kilmarnock.

Gray told Hibs TV: "We're obviously delighted for Rocky, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time, which is brilliant news.

"His return has been a wee bit delayed, but we'll hopefully get him back in time.

"It is a really special moment for Rocky. I think any young player dreams of playing at a World Cup. It's something everyone aspires to.

"For these players, they've now got the opportunity to do it, which is brilliant. He fully deserves it for his performances and I wish him all the best when he goes."

Hibs have seen consecutive draws against Dundee, Livingston and Motherwell ensure they will need favours to overhaul a six-point deficit on the Steelmen in the race for a top-four spot and guaranteed European qualification.

But much can change in the table in the final seven matches and Gray knows victory over Killie can give them a good platform.

"We've now put ourselves in a position where all we can do is take care of our own business," he said.

"We need to make sure that, given the opportunity, we capitalise on that. That starts with trying to get three points.

"Every game is huge and it's well within us to put a run together. We know we can do it, but the focus is only on the next match. The mindset is to take care of our job, get three points, and then assess it from there."

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• Hibernian have only lost one of their past 16 Scottish Premiership games against Kilmarnock (W9 D6) and are unbeaten in nine (W4 D5) since a 1-0 loss in November 2022.

• Kilmarnock have won their past two league games and could win three in a row for the first time since May 2025. However, Killie remain winless in 12 away league outings (D4 L8).

• Hibs are on a run of three successive draws, with their past two ending 0-0. The last side to play out three consecutive goalless draws in the Premiership were Hibs themselves in March 2022.

• Kilmarnock are winless in 12 Premiership trips to Easter Road (D4 L8) since winning 1-0 in May 2014.

• Only Dundee (17.3) have a higher PPDA (opposition passes allowed per defensive action) than both Hibs (14.0) and Kilmarnock (13.6) in the top flight this season.

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Randers manager Rasmus Bertelsen does not expect the Danish side to exercise their buy option for on-loan Hibernian striker Thibault Klidje. (Hibs Observer - subscription required), external

Brian McLauchlin
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

With three draws from three heading into the international break, it's fair to say David Gray and his backroom staff have been searching for a spark to reignite momentum at Hibs.

Across those fixtures Hibs have mustered 41 attempts on goal but found the net just three times - all of those goals came in the first of those matches away to Dundee.

Since then, back-to-back goalless draws against Livingston at Easter Road and Motherwell on their own patch have stalled progress leaving the gap to the Fir Park side at six points.

With seven matches remaining before the curtain falls on the campaign, hopes of securing European football next season are delicately poised. Still within reach, but offering little margin for error.

Attention will soon turn to a testing trip north to face Aberdeen before the drama of the post-split fixtures brings its usual intensity. But first the immediate focus is on the visit of Kilmarnock to Easter Road.

The Ayrshire side arrive in improved form, having claimed victories over league leaders Hearts and the division's bottom side Livingston.

Despite that resurgence, they remain in the relegation play-off spot, level on points with St Mirren, and will take confidence from their previous visit to Leith where they left with a point back in August.

For Hibs, much may depend on the condition of those returning from international duty. If they come back fit and ready, there remains every chance that what has been a frustrating spell could yet give way to a strong and meaningful finish to the season.

Hibernian are in talks with Dan Barlaser, 29, over making his loan move from Middlesbrough a longer-term arrangement. (Edinburgh Evening News - subscription required), external

Wednesday's Scottish gossip

Matty Fairnie
Fan writer

Hibs held their annual general last Thursday night and while there were no real signs of imminent investment, Ian Gordon certainly didn't close the door on it either.

When asked about the interest from Danish billionaire, Anders Holch Povlsen, Gordon stressed Hibs had lots of interest and that talks were ongoing – I found his choice of words interesting given there was the opportunity to close the rumour altogether.

Gordon was as impressive as I've seen him in these situations at the AGM, he was on the front foot to explain why the relationship with Black Knight FC was ended (Hibs "will never be a feeder team to anyone") and while he acknowledged that interest from potential investors, he made sure it was clear any investment would be on Hibs' terms and stressed external investment wasn't required for Hibs to achieve their own ambitions.

It's clear the Gordon family are invested in Hibs in every sense of the word, they have put their money where their mouth is time and again and while they'll ultimately hope to recoup that and more when the time comes to sell the club, it's unfair to conclude the spend is purely financially motivated. They love the club and from a fans' perspective, it gives me a huge amount of reassurance that we have owners who approach decisions from a Hibs-first standpoint and if and when it's right to spend money, they'll do so.

On the football side, I was most excited to hear of Hibs' building our own in-house data software to support the recruitment, as well as the decision to take over the Scottish FA's performance school at Broughton High, which will come under Hibs' stewardship when the SFA withdraw.

There are lots of things to be positive about at Easter Road, the AGM was a timely reminder that the club's in good hands.

You can find Matty Fairnie at Longbangers podcast, external

Hearts winning the Scottish Premiership would have no impact on Hibernian's "business side", says Easter Road chief executive Dan Barnett. (Scotsman - subscription required), external

Barnett expects Hibs' finances to look healthier in 12 months' time after a recent loss nearing £6m. (Edinburgh Evening news - subscription required), external

Tuesday's Scottish gossip

Brian McLauchlin
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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Hibernian chief executive Dan Barnett says the club's majority owners, the Gordon family, remain open to external investment but insist there is no urgency to secure a deal.

Last year the Gordons bought back a 25% stake in the club previously purchased for £6m by Black Knights consortium, led by Bournemouth owner Bill Foley.

Barnett confirmed chairman Ian Gordon has held discussions with potential investors, although no agreement is imminent and talks remain confidential.

"The family receives a lot of interest regarding a minority stake," Barnett said.

"There is no rush to do anything, and there is no requirement for us to act in order to deliver our long-term strategy.

"However, if the right opportunity arises - one that strengthens the club and helps us progress - then we would always be open to it."

Barnett added that the previous multi-club ownership model involving the Black Knights may not be replicated in any future deal.

Recent developments in European football have heightened scrutiny around such models.

Crystal Palace were demoted from the Europa League to the Conference League by Uefa over shared ownership links with Lyon through chairman John Textor.

Barnett acknowledged that Hibernian would be mindful of similar risks.

"The multi-club ownership model is clearly a sensitive issue with Uefa at the moment," he said.

"That would be a key consideration for us. The last thing we want is to jeopardise our ability to compete in European competitions, which is central to our ambitions.

"We would want someone who can bring fresh ideas, provide constructive challenge and help drive the club forward, whether commercially or in growing the Hibs brand."

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Former Hibs and Scotland midfielder Alex Cropley has died at the age of 75.

Cropley, born in Aldershot, England, but raised in Edinburgh, began his career at Easter Road in 1968 and made 199 appearances in a six-year spell, scoring 49 goals.

He was a key part of the famous 'Turnbull's Tornadoes' Hibs side that won the League Cup in 1972.

Cropley, a member of the Hibs hall of fame, earned his two Scotland caps during his time in Leith before joining Arsenal in 1974.

He moved on to Aston Villa two years later, winning the English League Cup with the Midlands club, and had brief spells with Toronto Blizzard and Portsmouth before retiring at age 31 after struggling with injuries.

"Everyone at Hibernian FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hibs legend Alex Cropley, at the age of 75," said the Easter Road club in a statement.

"Rest in peace, Alex."

Hibernian head coach David Gray plans to use the international break to turn his attention to summer transfers. (Edinburgh Evening News, external)

Read Friday's Scottish Gossip in full here.

BBC Scotland's Edinburgh football reporter Brian McLauchlin has been answering some of your questions on Hibs.

Kieran asked: Do you think we've reached our maximum potential with David Gray? I personally feel we are underachieving with this squad, three wins against top-six sides this season, consistently boring football to watch.

Scott asked: What would be your view on Hibs bringing in an experienced coach to assist Gray with his game management for next season?

Brian answered: Any manager at any club in any league is only ever as good as the recruitment. And while Hibernian have invested heavily in recent years it's fair to say, other than one or two players, this has been underwhelming.

Sometimes a supporter's view of being successful can differ from those running the club. The fans may have been disappointed to see Kieron Bowie leave in January as he was still to reach his potential.

However, when a significant offer lands - about 10 times the fee Hibs originally paid - it makes complete sense to accept.

The use of data now has become a key component in recruitment and if there is an increase in investment at the club then this is where it should happen.

As for having an experienced coach working alongside Gray, I am not sure this would add much to the backroom team already assembled.

In Eddie May he has someone with vast experience at first team and youth level to lean upon for advice. He also has Liam Craig and Craig Samson.

That trio know just about all there is to know about the Scottish game and, along with Gray, are as competent a management team as you will find in Scotland.

Aidan asked: Is this the start of a season-by-season decline? No progression in Europe, out of cup competitions early and lower-table finishes.

Callum asked: Why have Hibernian not progressed from last season given they made some positive signings? Fans feel the current manager has taken this team as far as he can, is it now time for change?

Brian answered: I certainly don't feel this is the start of a decline by the team. Two years ago Hibs finished eighth in the Premiership with 46 points. The outlook was bleak and there was little for fans to cheer.

Last season, after a very difficult start, the team finished third and would have been guaranteed European football through to Christmas were it not for a surprise win for Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup.

Few would have anticipated Hearts having a run like they have this season and there is no doubt this has hurt Hibs.

You also have to remember Gray's side only lost out narrowly and late in Europe to Midtjylland, a Champions League team in recent years, and Legia Warsaw. The brilliant victory in Belgrade in the most hostile of atmospheres provided memories to last a lifetime.

European football for next season is still a distinct possibility and although there is ground to be made up on Motherwell the gap is not unsurmountable.

So, yes, there have been disappointments this season but I don't see a steady decline. This summer's transfer window will be crucial to ensure a good start to next season.

As for getting rid of Gray, I would guard against this. Changing manager, as Hibs have found out, doesn't always work. It's 10 years this summer since Neil Lennon joined the club. Since then Paul Heckingbottom, Jack Ross, Shaun Maloney, Lee Johnson and Nick Montgomery have all come and gone.

Gray's appointment in 2024 has brought stability and given time I'm sure the success will follow.

Charlotte Cohen
BBC Sport Scotland

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Hibs forward Ante Suto says he gets "goosebumps" thinking about his rapid rise from the Croatian lower leagues to a potential World Cup call-up with Australia.

A little over two years ago Suto, who is in line for a Socceroos debut this week, was playing for second-tier NK Croatia Zmijavci.

He moved to Slaven Belupo in January 2024 and was playing in the top flight before his switch to Hibs last month, where his impressive start his been rewarded with a first Australia call-up.

Born and raised in Croatia, 25-year-old Suto qualifies for Tony Popovic's side thanks to his Australian father, who hails from Melbourne.

"I started playing football when I was five years old and I was a little shy boy," Suto told the Socceroos official website.

"I played in my hometown [Imotski, Croatia]. It's a village of 2,000 people, and everyone in the village are proud of me. Now I'm here in this city, in this country, and here I get goosebumps now thinking about it.

"It's an amazing journey, but all of that is just hard work and dedication.

"Two months ago I was playing in Croatia, and two years ago I was playing in second division in Croatia.

"This is a big thing for me and I'm not looking into the future. I just want to be my best at every game and hopefully I'll get a call-up for a World Cup.

"When I moved to Scotland, I started well. I expected to start well, but not like that. So it happened quickly and I can't be more happy than I am now."

What would you like to ask our Edinburgh football reporter Brian McLauchlin about Hibernian?

He is in the hotseat, ready to answer your questions and offer his insight and opinion on your club.

Put your questions to Brian here.

Hibernian head coach David Gray sees progress in his side this season but accepts there is "more noise" towards Hibs with Hearts sitting top of the Scottish Premiership. (Edinburgh Evening News - subscription required), external

Wednesday's Scottish gossip

Matty Fairnie
Fan writer

It's rare Hibs have a goalless draw, even more so two in consecutive weeks, but here we are.

Neither side looked likely to score in last Saturday's Fir Park stalemate.

It was a game where you'd have appreciated the fourth official putting up the number of minutes taken away at the end of the game for tedium, rather than adding time on.

The previous week we had over 20 shots against Livingston and it was a game where I left the stadium wondering how we hadn't scored. On Saturday I wondered how we would ever score.

It's easy to point to the strikers when the team draws a blank, but Hibs' insistence on only attacking down the left-hand side puts a huge burden on Nicky Cadden to deliver (literally and figuratively) and makes us predictable to play against.

David Gray either has to mix up the tactics or insist his players do what he's asking if he has suggested we might explore the right-hand side or even through the middle as avenues for creating chances.

Saturday was dull, predictable and boring. Motherwell fans, I'm sure, will be saying the same.

The international break has come at a good time; I hope for everyone's sake Gray and his backroom team spend the time focusing on finding some variety in attack.

You can find Matty Fairnie at Longbangers podcast, external

Martin Boyle insists he does not know if he will travel to the World Cup as a free agent as the Australia winger nears the end of his contract with Hibernian and says he is concentrating on keeping his place in the national squad and finishing his time at Easter Road on a high. (Edinburgh Evening News - subscription required), external

Centre-back Rocky Bushiri has targeted "an incredible end to the season" by helping the Democratic Republic of Congo qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974 and securing European football for Hibs. (Edinburgh Evening News - subscription required), external

Tuesday's Scottish gossip