Hibernian have sacked head coach David Gray after six games of the Scottish Premiership season, concluding his 12-year stay at Easter Road. The decision follows a 1-0 home defeat to Kilmarnock, a result that leaves the club ninth in the table with six points from six matches.

Executive chairman Ian Gordon confirmed the move, citing a downturn in results. "this is a decision that we have not taken lightly, but unfortunately, one as a board we had to make due to the recent downturn of results and performances," Gordon said. He added, "Dave has been an inspirational figure at the club during his time here, and he has been a true friend and fantastic colleague to so many."

Gray's departure marks the end of a significant era. Appointed permanently in May 2024, he managed 107 games, winning 43, drawing 29 and losing 35. His first full season saw a remarkable recovery to a third-place finish, securing European football. He repeated the feat last season with a fifth-place finish, becoming the first Hibs manager to achieve consecutive European qualifications since the early 1970s. He also recorded notable away wins at Ibrox and Celtic Park.

Collapse in form

However, the team's form collapsed dramatically. The loss to Kilmarnock was a club-record sixth successive home league defeat, a run stretching back to last season and not seen since 1920. The performance was widely criticised, with experienced defenders like Grant Hanley and Jason Kerr appearing uncertain. The team has conceded 10 goals in six league games this term while scoring only seven.

Late goals became a defining and costly theme under Gray. Last season, dramatic exits from the Europa Conference League play-offs against Gent featured concessions in the 84th and 90th minutes. This campaign has seen similar late lapses against Ross County, Hearts, and Dundee United cost valuable points. The pattern of conceding at critical moments eroded the team's resilience.

What comes next

Sporting director Malky Mackay and chairman Ian Gordon now lead the search for a successor with the club in a precarious league position, 12 points behind leaders Celtic. The immediate focus turns to halting the dismal home form. St Mirren currently sit fourth, presenting another tough challenge.

Several key players are currently sidelined, including Jordan Obita, Kanayochukwu Megwa and Rocky Bushiri, which has tested the squad's depth. The club's top scorer this season is C. Wright with two goals. The new manager will need to address a lack of steel and organisation quickly, with the January transfer window offering a potential reset. The search for Gray's permanent replacement begins immediately.

Background and full detail: BBC Sport Football