I can't believe Hibs turnaround under David Gray and here's what is waiting for them away to Midjtylland
Emiliano Marcondes has claimed David Gray deserves all the praise for the way he has turned European-bound Hibs around.
Gray leads the Edinburgh side into the first leg of their Europa League qualifier with Midjtylland in Denmark this week. That was the prize for transforming the capital side from bottom of the table to finishing third and best of the rest in last season's Premiership.
Marcondes told Record Sport: 'David Gray is a great guy and always one that wanted the best for the club. Yes, it's been a top job David has done.
'Just looking back at how it started (last season) and how he's turned it around and been able to get his ideas across, to make a lasting impact over time.
"It is now great to see how they get on in Europe."
Hibs travel to the MCH Arena for their opener against Midjtylland on Thursday. It will see two of Marcondes' former teams lock horns.
The Danish playmaker had a successful loan spell from Bournemouth at Hibs two seasons ago under Nick Montgomery and enjoyed a similar spell at Midtjylland earlier in his career.
The current Norwich City star admitted: 'Yes. I'm gonna be watching that game. It will be a great match-up for sure. It's a great stadium and loud.
'They sing a lot and when or if they score then the place will be bouncing.
'The home support will be very important for Midtjylland on Thursday night but having played for Hibs I know it could also be the same for them with a full house at Easter Road in the second leg.
'The fans in both legs could be important and even decisive.'
Marcondes went from Brentford to Midtjylland earlier in his on-loan. It was similar to Hibs' current tie up with Bournemouth.
He spent five months at Hibs and admitted the biggest highlight was his derby goal in the 1-1 Tynecastle with Hearts. Marcondes hasn't closed the door on making a visit back to Edinburgh in the future.
The 30-year-old proudly said: 'Scoring in the Edinburgh derby at Tynecastle for sure (was the highlight)!
'I really enjoyed my time in Edinburgh. It's a great place with great people. It is definitely a place I would come back to.'
Marcondes has since moved on from Bournemouth but believes their link-up with Hibs can be a big plus for both clubs. Shareholders The Black Knights have invested in the Leith club and are giving guidance on and off the field in a bid to take Hibs forward.
Hibs are also looking at a number of loan options from the English Premier League club.
The attacking midfielder explained: 'It was the same situation between Midtyjlland and Brentford when I went on loan.
'It is similar to the Bournemouth Hibernian connection that's why my move to Scotland became a reality.
'I think it will be a strong connection when you see the recruitment they have done in both clubs.
'It will definitely also help the younger players to get more experience. I think it is a win-win for both sides.'
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