Hibs manager David Gray says he’s not “worried” about his team’s poor start to the league season and is confident that fans will see improvement as new signings adjust and gain match fitness.
Speaking after today’s 2-0 home defeat to Celtic, the defending champions, Gray expressed frustration with his team conceding two early goals, which put them on the back foot. Despite the back-to-back losses to start the Scottish Premiership season, Gray, who will lead his team to Celtic Park for a Premier Sports Cup match next Sunday, maintains that he has the situation under control.
“I wouldn’t say I’m worried,” Gray stated. “It’s just two league games. There’s some short-term difficulty now for what I believe will be long-term benefits.
“If you compare the squad now to where it was a week ago, there’s more competition for places, though it’s still not where we want it to be.
“We have players coming back from injury and others joining the team, and we’ll continue to strengthen the squad while the transfer window is open.
“I’m confident we’ll get there. We’re integrating new players, like Kieron Bowie, who made a positive impact coming off the bench and will be an asset for us. The competition is increasing.
“Last weekend’s poor start and playing against Celtic is always challenging. We know we need to improve, and I believe we will.
“It’s evident we can’t start like we did today, allowing Celtic to score in the first three minutes and settle into their rhythm. They’re a strong team.
“What concerned me most was the lack of composure on the ball at times. We anticipated the challenge, even if some players were experiencing it for the first time. It’s a learning process.
“I’m getting to know my players better. That was the most frustrating part because it’s top-level Scottish football.
“We need to learn quickly as we face Celtic again next week. We can’t afford to give them an early goal and expect a different outcome.
“We didn’t pose enough of a threat up until half-time, with many individual mistakes. Celtic controlled the first 45 minutes, and we were fortunate to go in only 2-0 down.
“The second half was more encouraging. We were braver with the ball and created more chances.
“We still fell short of making a comeback. I’m not avoiding that fact—we need to improve.
“Playing them next week, we know what to expect and need to address today’s shortcomings. We must be braver against Celtic’s press.”
Highlighting Kieron Bowie, the £600,000 signing who hit the bar with the team’s best chance, Gray said, “Bowie has the pace and physicality we need. He enjoys the physical side of the game, which is crucial here.
“Myko Kuharevich also showed potential in the first half, though he’s not fully match fit yet. We’ll have more depth once everyone is up to speed.
“Kieron has made a positive impact and will continue to improve as he gets fitter.
“Next weekend, we need to address where we fell short today and be courageous in handling Celtic’s pressing.”