Hibernian manager David Gray has admitted he’ll be watching Saturday’s Scottish Cup Final with more than casual interest, as Celtic prepare to take on Aberdeen at Hampden.
While his staff will be at the match, he’ll be watching from afar.
While Gray would normally tune in for the showpiece occasion, this year’s final carries extra significance for the Leith side. Hibs’ third-place finish in the Premiership has already secured them a spot in the Europa League qualifiers but their European journey could be significantly extended if Celtic complete the Treble.
If Brendan Rodgers’ side lift the trophy, Hibs will be guaranteed eight European fixtures next season. Even if they fall at the Europa League qualifying stage, they’ll drop into the Conference League’s league stage, offering a run of European games.
“I always watch it anyway, every year,” said Gray to the Scotsman. “And then, clearly, there’s a wee bit of an incentive to be watching it and why we want to watch it. I’m sure these games are always good, so it’ll be an interesting one to watch.”
Hibs will go into the qualifiers as Scotland’s Europa League representatives, but their progression is dependent on the outcome at Hampden.
It’s always good top have Scottish teams in Europe, and it would be great to have more representation in the league stage of the Europa League.
With the financial and footballing benefits of extended European competition at stake, it’s no surprise Gray will be hoping the Hoops do the business in Glasgow.
