Evans committed to Bristol Rovers amid Hibs links
What Happened
Bristol Rovers manager Steve Evans has confirmed that his focus remains on the League Two club despite rumours linking him with the vacant Hibernian job in the Scottish Premiership, according to BBC Sport. The Gas sit sixth in the league after four wins from their opening seven matches, but suffered a second consecutive defeat with a 3‐0 loss away to Gillingham on Saturday, also reported by BBC Sport.
Background
Evans took charge of Bristol Rovers in December of last year and secured the club’s safety in the fourth tier at the end of the previous season. In April he signed a new contract that extends his stay at the Memorial Stadium until 2028, as detailed by BBC Sport. Hibernian dismissed manager David Gray on 16 September after six straight home defeats, creating the vacancy that has sparked speculation about Evans, according to the same source.
The Reaction
Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol, Evans said there has been “no contact” from Hibernian and expressed his commitment to Rovers: “I’ve come here to deliver on a project - it doesn’t feel like that driving home this evening - but my commitment is to this football club,” he told the station, per BBC Sport. He added, “I’m humbled to be linked to a job like that because if you’re a Scotsman you know how big a football club that is but I’m not going anywhere.”
Personal Context
The 63‐year‐old manager has never worked in his native Scotland during his 32‐year managerial career, having spent his playing days with Clyde, Albion Rovers, Ayr United, Hamilton Academical and St Johnstone, as reported by BBC Sport. Evans is a lifelong Celtic supporter and hinted that “a certain team in Glasgow” would be the only Scottish club he might consider, stating, “I’ve often maintained there’s only one club that will take me to Scotland and, if they ever did ring, I’m in the car,” according to the same source. He clarified that while he respects the idea, he does not expect to take either of those jobs now.
Why It Matters
Evans’ reassurance comes at a time when Bristol Rovers are building momentum early in the season, and his decision to stay could provide stability for a side aiming to improve on a sixth‐place start. The speculation surrounding Hibernian highlights the challenges the Scottish club faces after a poor run of results and a recent managerial change. Evans’ comments also underline the personal ambition many British managers hold for opportunities in their home nations, even when they have established themselves elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Steve Evans’ current contract situation with Bristol Rovers? He signed a new deal in April that runs until 2028, securing his position at the club, according to BBC Sport.
Has Hibernian made any approach to Evans? Evans confirmed there has been no contact from Hibernian, as reported by BBC Sport.
What are Bristol Rovers’ recent results? The team are sixth in League Two with four wins from seven games but lost 3‐0 away to Gillingham in their most recent match, per BBC Sport.
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