What Martin Boyle admitted about Celtic says everything before Hibs clash

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Martin Boyle can talk up belief all he wants, but his own words make it clear Celtic remain the side setting the standards here.

Hibs head into the Celtic clash this one trying to qualify for Europe, but the language coming from their camp tells its own story. Confidence is being framed as a necessity rather than something built on evidence.

Boyle insisted it would be wrong to write Hibs off, yet he quickly acknowledged the scale of the Celtic task. His comments repeatedly point back to Celtic rather than what Hibs themselves are doing.

That contradiction becomes clearer when he admits Celtic have picked up recently, reinforcing the reality that the champions are finding their rhythm at the business end of the season.

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Celtic form leaves little room for doubt for Hibs’ Martin Boyle

Boyle openly describes Celtic as the reigning champions, and it frames this fixture as one where Hibs are reacting to a standard already set.

When asked about the challenge Celtic will pose, Boyle said, “Yes, we have to be confident that we can get results. Like you say, we know how difficult the opponent is, reigning champions and they’ve picked up recently.

“We have to have the belief that we can go and win the game. I’m hoping we have a strong end to the season.”

There is no attempt there to downplay Celtic’s strength, and that matters. The emphasis remains on Hibs’ belief because the underlying reality about facing the champions is clear.

Celtic still define the standard Hibs must chase

Even when Boyle speaks about having the belief that they can beat Celtic, it comes without any supporting detail.

With only three wins against Celtic since 2019, the size of the task ahead of Hibs is clear and Boyle’s words back that up.

This is what separates the sides at this stage. Celtic’s position is defined by results and status, while Hibs are relying on mindset and intent.

Boyle’s comments are not dismissive or bold, they are cautious and respectful. That alone underlines the gap that still exists between both clubs.

Celtic go into this fixture as the benchmark, and nothing in Boyle’s words suggest that is about to change.