Ron Gordon has lasting Hibs legacy as late owner leaves behind transformed Easter Road aspect

Ron Gordon's record as owner of Hibs might split fan opinion when viewed solely on performances on the pitch.

But former Easter Road hero Tam McManus insists there can be no disputing the American tycoon’s success off it. McManus reckons in just three-and-a-half years Gordon, who sadly lost his battle with cancer yesterday at the age of 68, has transformed the infrastructure at Easter Road to the point it is one of the best stadiums in the country. More than that though, he reckons Gordon’s zealous approach to improving every aspect of the club ensured it came through the Covid crisis not only intact but in even better shape than when he assumed control eight months earlier.

It was three years ago this week – just two weeks before the pandemic stopped Scottish football in its tracks – that Gordon addressed the club’s AGM and set out his five-year plan for Hibs. He vowed to spend £1million on stadium renovation, shake up the matchday catering and hospitality, increase turnover by 50 per cent by 2023, boost season ticket sales, increase sponsorship, invest in the academy, double the player budget and have the club competing in Europe every year. McManus reckons the Peru-born tycoon, who made his fortune in broadcasting, was well on the way to delivering on almost every aspect despite a rollercoaster three years on the park. He just hopes his family can pick up the baton to complete the job without too much disruption.

McManus said: “I was taken by complete shock when I heard Ron had passed away. Everyone connected with Hibs will be devastated.

“Ron has done a lot of good for the club. People tend to focus on the results on the pitch and he might have made one or two mistakes in relation to hiring and firing managers.

“But