Gray thrilled for World Cup-bound Bushiri
Hibs head coach David Gray was delighted to see defender Rocky Bushiri seal his place at the World Cup - even if his personal congratulations have been delayed. The centre-back was part of the DR Congo squad that ended a 52-year wait to return to the big stage when they beat Jamaica in a play-off on Tuesday. The nation was called Zaire the last time they took part and their highlight was keeping an opening defeat to Scotland down to 2-0.
The authorities declared a last-minute public holiday on Wednesday and Gray was still awaiting Bushiri's return as he previewed Saturday's Premiership visit of Kilmarnock. Gray told Hibs TV: "We're obviously delighted for Rocky, qualifying for the World Cup for the first time, which is brilliant news. "His return has been a wee bit delayed, but we'll hopefully get him back in time.
"It is a really special moment for Rocky. I think any young player dreams of playing at a World Cup. It's something everyone aspires to.
"For these players, they've now got the opportunity to do it, which is brilliant. He fully deserves it for his performances and I wish him all the best when he goes. " Hibs have seen consecutive draws against Dundee, Livingston and Motherwell ensure they will need favours to overhaul a six-point deficit on the Steelmen in the race for a top-four spot and guaranteed European qualification.
But much can change in the table in the final seven matches and Gray knows victory over Killie can give them a good platform. "We've now put ourselves in a position where all we can do is take care of our own business," he said. "We need to make sure that, given the opportunity, we capitalise on that.