KRIS COMMONS, has tipped Celtic to go for Hibernian’s star man Martin Boyle after the Australian impressed at the weekend in the 2-1 win over Kilmarnock at Easter Road. Despite an injury hell over the last two years, Boyle has still been one of Hibernian’s top performers and even earned the Player of the Month accolade in December. Now with twelve months remaining on his contract, Commons wrote in his Daily Mail column that Celtic could steal the attacker for a fraction of the price that Hibs wanted in January.
“Having played with Martin Boyle for a few months during my time at Hibs, I can vouch first-hand about just what a talented boy he really is. I promise you, he’s absolutely greased lightning when he’s in full flow.
“In terms of raw pace, he’s undoubtedly one of the quickest players in the country. But he’s also added a bit more subtlety and end product to his game over the past couple of years. He’s a much more complete player nowadays.
“Boyle is equally at home on the wing or through the middle as a striker, so the versatility he offers is another huge positive for any potential suitors.”
Lennon was manager to Boyle during his time at Easter Road and played him as a right-wingback, right winger and striker – the player fits into the type of versatility that the club lost when Jonny Hayes left. With nine substitutes available, he is the sort of player that you could rely on in a number of roles.
“Given that he’s only got a year left to run on his contract, bigger clubs are bound to be looking at him.
“I know for a fact that Neil Lennon rates him highly and thoroughly enjoyed working with him during their time together at Easter Road.
“With just a year left on his contract, Boyle wouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Especially not with the financial problems Hibs are facing.
“He could be available at a knockdown price. I reckon a bid of around £250k would be enough to at least ask the question of Hibs.
“With the transfer window open until October, Boyle will be a wanted man if he continues the red-hot form he showed against Killie on the opening day.”
The Scottish Sun reported that Boyle was watched by Celtic in January but the £1.5m figure that Jack Ross put on his head appeared too much for the club hierarchy to sanction a move.
Neil Lennon will of course know what he can get from Boyle, Hammond and McKinlay watching Boyle highlights that Celtic are being cautious with their scouting before committing to a deal.
