McLeish gracious in defeat

McLeish and Andy Watson share the disappointment

Hibs manager Alex McLeish was philosophical following his team's Scottish Cup final defeat at the hands of treble-winning Celtic.

McLeish admitted his side had been beaten by a better and stronger team but heaped praise on his players for their efforts on the day and throughout the season.

Doubt still surrounds McLeish's future at Easter Road, with West Ham United known to be interested in Scotland's most promising manager.

But there is no doubt that McLeish has proved himself to be an excellent manager with his achievements with Hibs this season.

My players deserve to celebrate because I don't think they've celebrated qualifying for Europe yet

Alex McLeish
Hibs manager

"We did very well in the first half and were probably a bit unlucky to be a goal down at half-time," said McLeish.

"But Celtic haven't won the league by a fluke - they've got quality players all round and they've been more clinical than anyone else in front of goal - that's why we found ourselves behind.

"The second goal was the killer - we fell asleep in the midfield and then Paul Fenwick slipped at the crucial time.

"But what can I say about the finish? That was the difference and that's been the difference between Celtic and the rest this season.

"They've been absolutely ruthless in front of goal - especially that man Larsson."

McLeish was glowing in his praise of all of his players, but he reserved a special word for one of the lesser-known names in the team, Ian Murray.

Paul Fenwick slipped to let Larsson in

"Ian Murray was immense - he's been tremendous the past few weeks and he's been our Mister Versatile this season.

"We've played him all over the place trying to find out what his best position is.

"He seems to favour his left side, but he admits himself he doesn't know what his best foot is. We'll be looking to establish him in the first team next season."

McLeish was unwilling to discuss any possible moves to the English Premiership, preferring to focus the attention on his team.

"It's not the time or place to discuss that. I'm here to discuss the Cup final and how well my players have done this season," he added.

"They deserve to celebrate tonight because I don't think they've celebrated qualifying for Europe this season.

"I don't think some people have respected us for that - they feel you have to win a trophy for it to be a successful season, but that's a load of nonsense."