Former Hibs midfielder Scott Allan is optimistic about David Gray’s team being ready for a “strong second half of the season,” even with Kieron Bowie’s recent departure.
Currently, Hibs sit fifth in the Premiership, just four points behind Motherwell, who have a game in hand, and three points clear of sixth-placed Falkirk.
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This season has seen the Easter Road club struggle with consistency, recently being eliminated from the Scottish Cup by Dunfermline and suffering a heavy loss to Falkirk.
Nonetheless, after a late surge in the transfer window, Hibs managed to secure four points from their last two outings, drawing with Rangers and winning an exciting five-goal match against Dundee United.
“The pressure on David Gray has definitely increased with Hearts performing so well,” Allan remarked on the BBC’s Scottish Football Podcast.
“Losing in the Scottish Cup early to Dunfermline would have been particularly frustrating for Gray, especially with the fans now eager for a cup run, particularly with Hearts excelling. They were hoping to see Hibs reach a final and contend for silverware.”
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Allan believes that the dramatic win against Dundee United, where Gray’s side made a comeback from 2-1 down to clinch a 3-2 victory with a late header from new signing Ante Suto, will serve as a critical boost for the rest of the season.
“Integrating new players can be challenging; Hibs have brought in six new signings,” he noted.
“With the loss of Kieron Bowie, as well as injuries to key players like Jamie McGrath and Josh Mulligan, it’s essential to quickly incorporate these new players. However, the victory, especially scoring so late with a brilliant header from Suto, is the kind of win that lays a solid foundation for what’s to come.”
“These two recent performances, following losses to Falkirk and Dunfermline, position Hibs well for a successful second half of the season.”