Hibernian have been challenged to “recreate history” as they seek to complete a Conference League qualifying aggregate win over Partizan and move to within one tie of the competition proper.
David Gray’s side hold a 2-0 lead from last week’s third qualifying round first leg and host the Serb side on Thursday, with the match live on BBC Scotland and iPlayer.
Hibs came agonisingly close to progression in the Europa League, before a late extra time goal in Leith ensured Denmark’s Midtjylland advanced instead and left the Premiership side facing Partizan.
“What I tried to do all last season was challenge the players every week to try and recreate our own history or change history in a positive way,” said Gray.
“They’ve given themselves a brilliant opportunity at the minute, but that’s all it is. I’m very quick to remind the players it’s only half-time in the tie. It’s a clean slate.
“Can we reach group stage football? It’s never been done before. As a group and as a club, can we then go and achieve that? That’s the first goal that the players have got in front of them.”