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How SPFL break clause can give history-chasing Hibs a shot at UEFA Conference League play-off glory Easter Road gaffer in ‘best chance’ claim despite ‘step up’ in quality Hibs boss David Gray has identified a crucial factor that gives his team the “best chance” of making European history. But he admits that the Easter Road side will have to raise their game to beat Belgian side Gent in their UEFA Conference League playoff-off. While attention turns to domestic matters this afternoon, with Partick Thistle the visitors in the last 16 of the Premier Sports Cup, Hibs will be straight back into European action immediately. The away leg of their clash with Gent has been confirmed for Thursday night, with a 7.30 pm kick-off, UK time. Scottish Premiership postponement will help But Hibs have taken advantage of an SPFL offer to postpone their league game against Kilmarnock scheduled for next weekend. Gray believes the extra recovery time could set his men up perfectly for Easter Road heroics in the return leg, as they look to become the first Hibs side ever to reach the league/group stages of European football. The former club captain said: “Gent will certainly be another step up. But we have earned the right to be involved in that tie. It’s something we will put our attention to after the cup game on Sunday. “We have that break in between legs as well, which will come at the right time by postponing the Kilmarnock game. That will give us the best chance to get through the tie. “It’s going to be a step up but the players can take a lot of belief from what they’ve achieved. Some big teams have gone to Shkendija and failed in that environment. “So we have to take belief from that and go enjoy ourselves. The fans certainly will; the ones who went over to North Macedonia were incredible. “I’m sure they’ll all be looking forward to another European trip now.”