Bristol Rovers manager Steve Evans has dismissed speculation about a move to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian, insisting his focus remains entirely on the League Two club where he is contracted until 2028.
Evans took charge at the Memorial Stadium in December 2025 when the club faced relegation danger in the fourth tier. He steered them to safety that season and signed a new long-term deal in April 2026. The Gas currently sit sixth in the table with four wins from their opening seven matches, though they suffered a 3-0 defeat away to Gillingham on Saturday.
Hibernian sacked manager David Gray on 16 September 2026 following six consecutive home league defeats, leaving the Edinburgh club ninth in the Scottish Premiership. Reports on 17 September suggested the club was preparing to seek permission to speak with Evans about the vacant position, though Evans stated there has been no direct contact from the Scottish side.
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. 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.
The 63-year-old made these comments to a national broadcaster, emphasising his dedication to Bristol Rovers despite the allure of managing in his native Scotland. Over his 32-year managerial career, Evans has never taken a job north of the border, though he spent his playing days with Scottish clubs including Clyde, Albion Rovers, Ayr United, Hamilton Academical and St Johnstone.
What would it take to move Evans to Scotland?
Evans revealed there is only one club that could tempt him to manage in Scotland. A lifelong Celtic supporter, he indicated that only the Glasgow giants would persuade him to leave Bristol Rovers.
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. A certain team in Glasgow, there's only one team I would leave this for and of course my country because everyone would manage their country. I don't think I'll get either of those jobs now but that's the only team I'd go north of the border for.
Bristol Rovers' recent form and Evans' track record
Under Evans' management, Bristol Rovers have shown significant improvement. According to , the club has won 14 of their past 18 league games, collecting more points than any other League Two side during that period. This impressive run demonstrates the progress Evans has made since arriving at a club in crisis.
What happens next for Hibernian and Bristol Rovers?
According to reports on Hibernian's situation, the Scottish Premiership club is aiming to appoint a new permanent head coach during the upcoming international break, with John Potter currently in interim charge. Any potential move for Evans would require Bristol Rovers' permission and compensation, as noted a deal could demand around £250,000 given his contract extension through 2028.
Evans remains focused on his project at Bristol Rovers, where he has transformed the club's fortunes since taking over during a relegation battle. His commitment to delivering success at the Memorial Stadium appears unwavering, regardless of interest from other clubs.
