Hibs manager Jack Ross has extra incentive to secure extended European adventure

For Hibs manager Jack Ross, an extended run in Europe would be more than simply a reward for Scottish Cup success – it would offer him a window into a world he is interested in being part of one day.

The Easter Road manager has revealed a fascination with the coaching styles in Spain, having studied Pep Guardiola and enjoyed the opportunity to observe a few days’ of Valencia’s training a few years ago. He also admits to scouring YouTube for coaching ideas as he seeks to develop and enhance his own managerial repertoire.

Already guaranteed a Conference League qualifier, courtesy of Hibs’ league position, victory in today’s Scottish Cup semi against Dundee United and then in the May 22 final would see the Leith side enter the Europa League qualifiers, aware that even if they lost that tie they would drop into the Conference League groups, with games into December.

It would be a great way for Ross to pit his wits against fresh foes as he warms to the idea of coaching abroad in the future.

Hibs manager Jack Ross is hoping the Scottish Cup will provide his side with an extended run in European competition. Photo by Mark Scates / SNS Group

“Yeah, I must admit that as I have coached more and managed more it’s something I have become more interested in and it’s something I would be keen to explore in future.

“I have said how content and happy I am at the club I’m at at the moment and the work I still see ahead of me to make sure this club is a consistent feature in the area of cups we’re in at the moment.

“But I certainly think in the future that it’s something I would love to get the opportunity to do.

“From a professional perspective, to experience different countries and leagues would be attractive but the only way that will ever come around is through being successful at Hibs.’

For now, though, the Hibs boss will have to work some managerial magic closer to home as his side head back to Hampden looking for a path past the semi-finals.

It will be his third attempt this term, after his side came up short in the delayed conclusion to last season’s Scottish Cup and then lost out to St Johnstone in the last four of the League Cup.

He will also have to identify a way to do it without the suspended Alex Gogic.

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