Hibernian have drawn up a nine-man shortlist in their search for a new manager after parting ways with David Gray. The club sits ninth in the Scottish Premiership with just six points from six matches, prompting the board to seek a fresh direction.

Gray's 12-year association with Hibs ended following a 1-0 home defeat to Kilmarnock last weekend, a result that extended a losing run at Easter Road to six consecutive games. The club's hierarchy have made clear that securing a top-six finish is the minimum requirement this season, a target that looks distant with the team currently 12 points behind leaders Celtic.

The leading contenders

Early indications point to strong supporter interest in Simo Valakari. The Finnish coach led St Johnstone back to the top flight last season and is committed to a long-term project in Perth, but his success has attracted attention. Another name with significant backing is Ian Murray, currently managing Greenock Morton, who has previous experience with Dumbarton, St Mirren, Airdrie and Raith Rovers.

Marvin Bartley has turned Stenhousemuir into promotion contenders in the Championship, rebuilding his reputation after a difficult first spell in management at Livingston. Michael O'Neill, the Northern Ireland manager who also holds a role at Blackburn Rovers, is another candidate who could return to Edinburgh in a club capacity.

Experienced options

Former Celtic assistant John Kennedy, now working with Brendan Rodgers at Al-Qadsiah in Saudi Arabia, was considered for the Hibs job back in 2021. Steve Clarke is a free agent after leaving the Scotland national team following their World Cup return, while Neil Lennon is currently in charge at Dunfermline Athletic.

Darren Fletcher, who took temporary charge of Manchester United earlier this year, and current interim boss John Potter complete the list. Potter, who has managed Dunfermline and Kelty Hearts, will oversee the team for the immediate future, including the next fixture against St Mirren on 30 December.

The club's recent form shows two wins and three losses from the last five outings, with Christian Wright leading the scoring charts with two goals. Injuries to Jordan Obita, Kanayochukwu Megwa and Rocky Bushiri complicate the situation for whoever takes charge. The new manager will inherit a squad that has scored seven goals but conceded ten this season, leaving them with a negative goal difference.

Hibernian's next match is a home encounter with fourth-placed St Mirren, a team they beat 2-0 in their last meeting at Easter Road in February. The club's search is expected to accelerate this week as they aim to appoint a permanent successor before the winter break.

Background and full detail: Daily Record Football