- Joined
- Jun 27, 2002
The week beginning 13 April was a strange one for Hibs: no match to dissect, no VAR storm to rage over, and no league table movement to obsess about. Instead, it became a week of preparation, reflection, and rising anticipation ahead of the Edinburgh derby. With the Premiership entering its decisive phase, Hibs used the blank weekend to reset, regroup, and sharpen their focus for what comes next.
A Blank Weekend, but Not a Quiet One
With no fixture scheduled, Hibs found themselves in the unusual position of watching the rest of the league unfold around them. The coaching staff used the downtime to fine‑tune tactical details ahead of the derby, while several players benefited from the chance to recover from knocks and fatigue. Reports suggested that training intensity was high, with David Gray determined to ensure the team hit the post‑split run‑in at full throttle.
The absence of a match didn’t stop the headlines, though. Media coverage throughout the week repeatedly circled back to the fallout from the Aberdeen defeat earlier in the month, with pundits continuing to debate the red‑card decisions and VAR inconsistencies. While not new, the continued scrutiny kept Hibs in the national conversation.
Derby Countdown Begins
One of the biggest stories of the week was the confirmation of the referee and VAR team for the upcoming Edinburgh derby. With tensions already high and both clubs fighting for crucial end‑of‑season positioning, the appointments drew predictable scrutiny. Supporters on both sides dissected the officials’ histories, decisions, and perceived tendencies, adding an extra layer of intrigue to a fixture that rarely needs help generating drama.
The derby loomed large in training too. With Hearts still in the title picture and Hibs eager to derail their rivals’ momentum, the match was framed as an opportunity—not just for points, but for pride, narrative, and leverage heading into the summer.
Pre‑Season Plans Take Centre Stage
Off the pitch, Hibs made significant noise by announcing their 2026/27 pre‑season plans, including a training camp in Dublin and a friendly against Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium. The club also unveiled details of a fanzone in Temple Bar, complete with live music, former player appearances, and supporter activities. The early organisation was widely praised and seen as a sign of a more proactive, joined‑up approach behind the scenes.
These announcements helped shift the tone of the week from frustration to forward‑looking optimism. With the club celebrating its 150th anniversary, the Dublin trip was positioned as both a footballing exercise and a cultural nod to Hibs’ origins.
Player Focus and Transfer Undercurrents
Media outlets also ran several features on individual players. Owen Elding’s rapid rise continued to attract attention, with reports highlighting both his potential and the administrative hurdles delaying his international progression. Meanwhile, speculation around summer recruitment persisted, though nothing concrete emerged.
The week also saw updates on injuries, contract situations, and loan performances, all contributing to a sense that the squad is approaching a period of transition.
The Bigger Picture
In a week without a ball kicked, Hibs still managed to stay firmly in the spotlight. The focus now shifts fully to the derby and the post‑split fixtures that will define the season’s success—or shortcomings. With rest banked, plans in place, and motivation high, the Hibees enter the decisive stretch with clarity and purpose.
A Blank Weekend, but Not a Quiet One
With no fixture scheduled, Hibs found themselves in the unusual position of watching the rest of the league unfold around them. The coaching staff used the downtime to fine‑tune tactical details ahead of the derby, while several players benefited from the chance to recover from knocks and fatigue. Reports suggested that training intensity was high, with David Gray determined to ensure the team hit the post‑split run‑in at full throttle.
The absence of a match didn’t stop the headlines, though. Media coverage throughout the week repeatedly circled back to the fallout from the Aberdeen defeat earlier in the month, with pundits continuing to debate the red‑card decisions and VAR inconsistencies. While not new, the continued scrutiny kept Hibs in the national conversation.
Derby Countdown Begins
One of the biggest stories of the week was the confirmation of the referee and VAR team for the upcoming Edinburgh derby. With tensions already high and both clubs fighting for crucial end‑of‑season positioning, the appointments drew predictable scrutiny. Supporters on both sides dissected the officials’ histories, decisions, and perceived tendencies, adding an extra layer of intrigue to a fixture that rarely needs help generating drama.
The derby loomed large in training too. With Hearts still in the title picture and Hibs eager to derail their rivals’ momentum, the match was framed as an opportunity—not just for points, but for pride, narrative, and leverage heading into the summer.
Pre‑Season Plans Take Centre Stage
Off the pitch, Hibs made significant noise by announcing their 2026/27 pre‑season plans, including a training camp in Dublin and a friendly against Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium. The club also unveiled details of a fanzone in Temple Bar, complete with live music, former player appearances, and supporter activities. The early organisation was widely praised and seen as a sign of a more proactive, joined‑up approach behind the scenes.
These announcements helped shift the tone of the week from frustration to forward‑looking optimism. With the club celebrating its 150th anniversary, the Dublin trip was positioned as both a footballing exercise and a cultural nod to Hibs’ origins.
Player Focus and Transfer Undercurrents
Media outlets also ran several features on individual players. Owen Elding’s rapid rise continued to attract attention, with reports highlighting both his potential and the administrative hurdles delaying his international progression. Meanwhile, speculation around summer recruitment persisted, though nothing concrete emerged.
The week also saw updates on injuries, contract situations, and loan performances, all contributing to a sense that the squad is approaching a period of transition.
The Bigger Picture
In a week without a ball kicked, Hibs still managed to stay firmly in the spotlight. The focus now shifts fully to the derby and the post‑split fixtures that will define the season’s success—or shortcomings. With rest banked, plans in place, and motivation high, the Hibees enter the decisive stretch with clarity and purpose.