Hibernian chairman Ian Gordon and manager David Gray are on the verge of creating history, according to Easter Road hero and Record Sport columnist Tam McManus. The Hibs squad could reach the group stages of European football for the first time, a feat McManus describes as a great opportunity.
Hibs face Belgian side Gent, a decent team but not a top Premier League, Serie A, or Bundesliga side. McManus insists Hibs must deliver a complete performance over the two legs to secure a place in the group stages.
Fans desperate for group stage football
Hibs fans have watched Aberdeen and Hearts achieve group stage football and are desperate for their own chance. The support always travels in numbers, with McManus noting two of his pals are currently on a train from France to Gent. If Hibs qualify, McManus would try to join an away trip with friends.
Qualifying for the group stages would be massive for the Gordon family. McManus says Ian Gordon deserves something like this, given the money he and his family have put into the club. He has heard stories of Gordon leaving money behind the bar for fans, even when supporters are away. McManus adds that Gordon has put his money where his mouth is, and he and the fans deserve group stage football.
European pedigree and performance
McManus notes that Hibs did not get through last year, but their performances were better than this year's. They faced Red Star Belgrade, Legia Warsaw, and Midtjylland, teams with good European pedigrees. This year, opponents Malisheva and Shkendija are not big teams, though Hibs got through.
Hibs are underdogs against Gent, and McManus believes David Gray's game plan will be to stay in the tie to give the team something to play for in front of their own fans. He says the performance on Thursday night must be a lot better than it has been recently, as a better side would take care of Hibs just now. There is no room for error at this stage of Europe.
Defensive solidity but attacking issues
McManus says the issue has not been defensively, as Hibs look solid. The back four, with Miguel Chaiwa and Josh Mulligan in front of them, have been strong. However, going forward is the problem, as Hibs are not creating or taking enough opportunities. They need someone to create in the final third, like a Russell Latapy or Scott Allan-type player.
McManus is not sure being good enough defensively will be enough to get through. They have a goalscorer but need a maverick who can do something off the cuff. If Hibs can keep the game alive and bring it back to Easter Road, it would be a special night under the lights with a sold-out support.
