Hibernian's Shocking Move: Lee Johnson Axed After Crushing Livingston Defeat, Plunging Club to Scottish Premiership Rock Bottom
Hibernian dismiss manager Lee Johnson following three consecutive Scottish Premiership losses, including a disappointing 3-2 defeat at home against Livingston Johnson's departure comes after a relatively short tenure of just over 15 months, despite his hopes for continued support from the board Hibs now find themselves at the bottom of the league table
Hibernian have terminated the contract of manager Lee Johnson following their 3-2 loss to Livingston at home on Saturday, which placed the club at the bottom of the Scottish Premiership table.
Notably, Hibs have experienced three consecutive losses in the league this season, and additionally endured a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Aston Villa in the UEFA Europa Conference League at their home stadium.
Johnson was sacked by some fans during the defeat to Livingston at Easter Road on Saturday. The 42-year-old, who was appointed in May 2022, is leaving the club after a little over 15 months in charge.
Hibs have announced that coaches Jamie McAllister and Adam Owen have also departed from the club with immediate effect.
"We wish Lee and his coaching staff all the best for the future and thank them for their efforts."
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David Gray, the former captain, will assume temporary leadership of the team, receiving assistance from Stuart Garden.
On Thursday, the Edinburgh club will confront Aston Villa on their turf for the second leg of the Europa Conference League play-off, followed by a visit to Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday.
Johnson had hoped board were going to stick by him
Following Saturday's home defeat to Livingston, Johnson had hoped the Hibs board would stand by him despite losing their opening three Scottish Premiership games.
He apologized sincerely, acknowledging that he did not intend to begin in such a manner. He expressed his enthusiasm and determination for the season despite the unexpected challenges. He emphasized his desire to stay and hoped for the board's support. Although he understood that some fans might want him replaced, he genuinely believed in the team's potential and acknowledged the need to improve defensively.
The current situation is unacceptable, and I acknowledge that. However, I am willing to take responsibility for it because I still have faith in our team. I believe that the players also have faith in us and are just as frustrated as anyone else.
I understand that there is intense scrutiny, which is never pleasant. Sometimes people overlook the fact that we are human too. We put in a lot of effort and all I want is a positive atmosphere in the club. The attention should be on me, rather than the players.
With narrow margins, I genuinely think that if we can hold on for the remaining 10 minutes at 1-1, our momentum will shift in our favor again. It's regrettable because I have a deep affection for this place and I have faith in our abilities. Nevertheless, I've encountered situations like this in my professional journey in the past.
