New Hibs coach delivers 'drive things forward' vow as Gray recruits former Jack Ross No. 2 to backroom staff

Hibs boss David Gray has revealed why he turned to former mentor John Potter – after bringing the former Easter Road assistant manager back into the coaching team at East Mains. And Potter, formerly No. 2 to Jack Ross, has vowed to “drive things forward” in his new backroom role.

Potter, most recently director of football at Raith Rovers until Dougie Imrie’s arrival prompted a shake-up at Stark’s Park, brings an impressive wealth of experience to the group. Previously manager at Dunfermline and Kelty Hearts, he did most of his best work in tandem with Ross at St Mirren, Sunderland and Hibs.

He was a key figure in helping Gray adapt from a playing to coaching role when the former club captain retired, aged just 33, in June 2021. The current boss has kept in contact with Potter since taking over as manager on a permanent basis in the summer of 2024.

Gray said: “I’m delighted Potts has agreed to return to the football club. He understands Hibs inside out and he someone who has really helped me as both a player and at the beginning of my coaching journey. He is a well-respected figure and his knowledge, and expertise in the Scottish game will really help us take us forward next season.”

Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay added: “We are really pleased to be able to bring someone of John’s calibre back into the building. He has a great relationship with David Gray and he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience across Scottish Football.

Potter, Ross and Gray worked together

“He complements the current coaching set up very well, and we’re delighted to be able bring a coach with his qualities into the football club ahead of the start of the new season”

The 46-year-old is expected to be in place in time for the start of pre-season training on Monday week, joining the existing coaching staff of Gray, Liam Craig, Eddie May and Craig Samson as Hibs look to improve on last season’s disappointing domestic campaign. The Edinburgh side finished fifth in the Scottish Cup and, despite completing a rare Old Firm away double, endured disappointing runs in both cup competitions to leave fans frustrated by their efforts.

Yet Gray’s men still became the first Hibs side to secure European qualification in back-to-back seasons for 50 years, albeit via the side door of Celtic’s Scottish Cup win. They will be seeded in the UEFA Conference League second qualifying round taking place in Nyon next Wednesday.

New assistant coach Potter said: “I’m delighted to be returning to Hibs and to have the opportunity to work with David and the wider staff team again. Having known David as both a player and a coach I was delighted when he approached me about the opportunity.

“I’ve been really impressed with the way he’s stepped into management and the direction he’s taking the club. Hibs is a club I know well, with a fantastic support and real ambition, so it felt like the right move at the right time.

“I’m looking forward to getting started, supporting the staff and players, and helping drive things forward in the season ahead.”