Jack Iredale was the Hibs hero as they claimed back-to-back derby wins over Hearts.
The Hibees beat their rivals 2-1 in Leith yesterday to remain unbeaten against them this season with two wins in a draw, and also unbeaten in their last 15 Premiership matches.
David Gray’s side now occupy third spot as we head into the run-in and may now be favourites to hold onto it, despite pundits tipping Aberdeen last week.
The boss admitted he has never seen Iredale strike a ball like that before after his stunning winner.
And he had further praise for the defender.
Gray a huge fan of Hibs star Iredale
Hibs‘ incredible run has coincided with Iredale coming into the side as a left centre half and Gray switching to a 3-5-2.
The Aussie instantly impressed and has continued too, capped off with his display and brilliant goal in the derby.
His manager insists Iredale is a “real man” who puts hos body on the line for the team and plays through niggles.
Gray said: “I think he’s a real man. He’s a guy who puts his body on the line all the time. He’s a 100 per cent-er. He plays at times when carrying knocks and niggles, he’d always put his hand up to try to play.
“He had to be really patient for his opportunity. When he joined the club, he had a bit of an injury, but since he’s had his opportunity and he’s got in the team, he’s very consistent, makes really good decisions. If he does make a mistake, he doesn’t let it fluster him. He keeps moving forward. He’s certainly the type of player who you need in your dressing room.
“When people talk about who you want sitting beside you and who’s got your back going into a game, he’s definitely one of them. He’s a leader, he’s a man, he’s someone who gives absolutely everything every single week. You can’t have enough of them in your squad, that’s for sure.”
Emotional Hibs moment for Eddie May
Hibees coach Eddie May was recently hospitalised after being involved in a car crash on his way to training.
He has been back at work and Gray admitted it was an emotional moment to get him on the pitch for the post-match celebrations on the Easter Road pitch.
He explained: “It was good. I think he was reluctant to try and come on, in typical Eddie fashion – he didn’t want anything to do with any limelight.
“It was a special moment for everyone. I specifically said to the staff right at the end of the game that Sunshine on Leith here is one of the greatest songs in football, in my opinion. I know I’m biased, but I think it is.
“I’ve been so fortunate to hear it a couple of times as a player, and now as a coach. When you stand in the centre circle, it’s even better. To stand in the middle of the pitch and really feel it, and feel that connection between the players, the staff and the supporters, that’s why we do it.
“The staff are all a massive part of it as well. To get Eddie on the pitch at the end there was emotional because he’s been through a lot, so to get him back today and get him back in amongst it, I’m delighted for him as well because he’s a massive part of what we do. He’s a massive help to me and I’m very grateful for that.”