Five years ago, the Teessiders went into battle with Sevilla in Eindhoven after a remarkable journey, although their dreams were shattered as the Spaniards ran out 4-0 winners.
But manager Steve McClaren immediately departed to take up the England job and the club's fortunes have dwindled since.
However, current boss Tony Mowbray has sparked a fightback which Gibson hopes will provide the foundation for a bright new future.
The chairman told the Evening Gazette: "I think we were all a bit depressed after that game and it was followed by some disappointing years for the football club.
"But we believe that we are on the verge of turning the corner. What we did in Europe shows what we are capable of achieving during the good times and it gives us a reason to believe in the future."
Source: PA
Source: PA