David Gray hopes European adventure can kick-start Hibernian’s league form

David Gray has called on Hibernian to use this year’s European experience as inspiration to spark an upturn in their league form and ensure they get a chance to return to continental competition next term.

The Hibees bowed out at the Conference League play-off round after being outclassed 8-0 over two legs by Aston Villa.

Prior to their glamorous but chastening showdown with the English Premier League side, they enjoyed victories over Andorran club Inter d’Escaldes and Swiss outfit Luzern.

Caretaker Gray hopes the summer nights Hibs have had in Europe will help drive improved league form after defeats in each of their opening three cinch Premiership led to manager Lee Johnson losing his job on Sunday.

“These are the nights we want at the football club,” Gray told Hibs TV. “The fans were fantastic across all three games in Andorra, Luzern, and Aston Villa.

“There were over 2,000 (at Thursday’s 3-0 defeat away to Villa) and they sang right through. It was a great occasion for them.

“I said to the players before the game that they earned the right to play on this stage. If we want more nights like this, then we have to turn our league form around.

“There’s no better way to do that than against Aberdeen on Sunday.”

Gray will remain in charge of the Hibees for this weekend’s trip to Pittodrie as the club continue to ponder their next move following the sacking of Johnson.