Eddie May to take charge of Hibs on interim basis

Ladbrokes Scottish Premiership – Hibernian v Celtic. Easter Road Stadium, Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK. 28/09/2019. Pic shows: Hibs’ Manager, Paul Heckingbottom, watches the action from the stand after being sent from the field in the first half as Hibs play host to Celtic at Easter Road Stadium, Edinburgh. Credit: Ian Jacobs

As anticipated earlier, Hibs have formally announced the
departure of both Head Coach Paul Heckingbottom and his assistant Robbie
Stockdale.

Head of Player Development Eddie May will take charge of the
team on an interim basis whilst the club decide on a replacement;

Assistant Coach Grant Murray and current player Steven
Whittaker will assist May with his duties.

Hibs face St Johnstone on Saturday before the international
break. Their next game will e at easter Road against Motherwell.

Heckingbottom led Hibs to fifth place in the table last year
but a mixture of poor results and disappointing form led to calls for his
sacking.

Hibs lost 5-2 to Neil Lennon’s Celtic on Saturday in the
semi-final of the Betfred League Cup and it was noticeable that a fewer than
normal number of fans made the trip to the national stadium.

The news of Heckingbottom’s sacking broke this afternoon
sparking speculation as to his successor with former Sunderland manager Jack Ross
installed as an early favourite for the position.

A statement on the club website reads “Hibernian FC today
announced that Head Coach Paul Heckingbottom and his Assistant Coach, Robbie
Stockdale, have been relieved of their duties at the club.

“Head of Player Development Eddie May will take charge of
the team on an interim basis – supported by Assistant Coach Grant Murray and
Steven Whittaker.

“Supporters can expect further comment from the club in the
coming days.”