Scottish Cup winning legends Darren McGregor and ‘Sir’ David Gray have agreed new four-year extensions to their contracts.
The long-term plan is for both to take on positions within the club that make the most of their experience and leadership qualities, however, they remain influential members of Paul Heckingbottom’s first-team squad.
The Head Coach told Hibernian Media: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to agree new contracts with Darren and David but, in reality, it was a quick conversation on both sides.
“We’re fortunate to have two experienced players of real quality and I have spoken repeatedly about their qualities as leaders and role models within our dressing room.
“From their perspective, this club clearly means the world to them and it can only be a good thing that they will continue to help shape it over the next four years.
“Be in no doubt, they are first team players. The challenge, for the pair of them, is to maintain that for as long as they can.”
Head of Football Operations, George Craig added: “It’s fantastic news. We’re securing the services of two excellent professionals.
“One of the things I’ve said consistently since coming to the club is that we’re very lucky that our senior professionals are great role models for our younger players. They’re terrific in everything that they do.” McGregor said: “Walking through that door four years ago was a dream come true.
“When I was 24 and folding jeans for a living in Xile, if you’d told me at 30 I’d be playing for Hibs, winning the Scottish Cup and having such a big influence in the team I’d have shaken my head in disbelief. If you work hard, the sky is the limit.”
Club captain Gray said: “It’s been a fantastic five years since I’ve been at the club and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
“It’s a really good place to be at the minute and an exciting time. The club is in good shape.
“The hunger to play football is driving me on and hopefully that will carry me through another four years.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
