Hibernian head coach David Gray has made it clear his side are not approaching Monday night’s trip to Ibrox with trepidation, but with belief - even as he acknowledged the significant improvement Rangers have shown under Danny Röhl.
Speaking ahead of the Premiership clash, Gray revealed that far from being reluctant, his players are actively eager to be involved in what he described as one of the standout fixtures in Scottish football.
“For players at Hibs, the chance to go and play at Ibrox on a Monday night is a brilliant one,” Gray said.
“It’s an occasion they want to be part of.”
From a Rangers standpoint, that mindset underlines the challenge ahead.
Ibrox under the lights remains a demanding environment, but Gray’s comments suggest Hibs see it as a stage rather than an obstacle - particularly following a confidence-boosting performance in their previous outing against Falkirk.
Gray was also keen to stress that Hibs will not deviate from their approach, regardless of venue.
“We’re going there with a game plan that won’t change in terms of our mindset,” he explained.
“We’re going there to try and win the game.”
That belief, however, comes with an acknowledgment of the growth Rangers have shown since the sides last met. Gray admitted there has been a noticeable shift since Röhl’s arrival, pointing to consistency and improved results.
“They’ve definitely improved,” Gray said.
“They haven’t lost in the league under the new manager, and the results show that.”
It is an assessment few at Ibrox would dispute.
Gray also reflected honestly on Hibs’ previous visit to Ibrox, conceding Rangers were worthy winners on the day as they eliminated Hibs from the Scottish League Cup under Russell Martin with a 2-0 win.
“Rangers were the better side and deserved to win,” he admitted.
“We know we need to be at our very best to get something this time.”
The unusual Monday night kick-off has also been framed positively by the Hibs boss. Rather than disrupting preparations, Gray sees it as part of the spectacle.
“Quarter to eight under the lights at Ibrox will be a brilliant atmosphere,” he said.
“The players will enjoy it.”