The 2000-01 campaign was a glorious return to prominence for Hibernian as The Hibees surged to a spectacular 3rd-place finish in the Scottish Premier League, securing a coveted UEFA Cup spot and reaching the Scottish Cup Final. Leading the charge was their talismanic striker Mixu Paatelainen, whose 11 league goals (12 overall), including a famous hat-trick in the 6-2 derby thrashing of Hearts, proved decisive in a campaign built on attacking flair and the experience of legends like Franck Sauzée and Russell Latapy. It was a triumphant year that marked the start of Alex McLeish's 'golden generation' and remains a defining chapter in the club's modern history.. The 2001-02 campaign was a turbulent, three-manager season for Hibernian, with The Hibees ultimately finishing 10th in the Scottish Premier League after flirting with a relegation battle following a long mid-season winless run. The year was defined by managerial turmoil, Alex McLeish's mid-season departure to rivals Rangers, the brief and ill-fated tenure of player-manager Franck Sauzée, and the arrival of Bobby Williamson who successfully guided the team to safety. Amid the chaos, the season saw the emergence of young striker Garry O'Connor, whose 9 crucial league goals were vital, including his memorable first goal for the club against Celtic, marking a dramatic and pivotal chapter in his career and the club's modern history.