AFTER COPING admirably with his father’s serious illness earlier in the season, Martin Boyle is not about to let fresh speculation over his future now deflect his focus away from the possibility of double Scottish Cup glory.
The former Dundee striker was an unused substitute when Hibernian ended 114 years of torment and lifted the trophy following their dramatic triumph over Rangers in 2016.
He celebrated wildly in the aftermath, but confesses victory against St Johnstone on Saturday may be more satisfying, given he is likely to play a more pivotal role if the Easter Road side do prevail at Hampden.
It would cap a magnificent season for the 28-year-old and likely spark fresh interest from suitors, who are likely to have been enticed further by reports of an apparent £500,000 buy-out clause in the new contract he penned back in August.
However, the Australia internationalist is adamant there will be only one thing on his mind this weekend, and has stressed how his contentment at Hibs will be a huge factor even if bids do come in for his services this summer.
He said: “I haven’t really thought about it [the speculation]. I can’t describe how much I’m enjoying my football here. Some people might say that money is everything but happiness is everything.
“I am really enjoying my football here, my family are settled here, and I am committed to another two years here.
HAPPY
“I could have just seen out my contract but I think there is a lot to be said for being happy, that’s the kind of guy I am, and I am happy and playing football regularly and enjoying it.
“It has been fantastic for me, just making family proud and, although I had a chance to just see it out, and this Saturday could have been my last game, thankfully it’s not and I’m in a position where I have had a really good season and whatever happens will happen.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time and I still do. As far as I’m aware I will be returning for pre-season after the internationals.
“I’ve two years left and whatever happens, happens. If something comes of it then something comes of it but my full focus is on Saturday – then returning back after the internationals for pre-season.
“I’d just have to see what the opportunity was and weigh it up. I have never been in that position before.
“But I’m sure if it was brought to my attention then it’s something I would weigh up with family and the club then take it from there.”
Boyle’s life was turned upside down back in January when his dad suffered a stroke. Thankfully, Graeme has since recovered and will again be a motivating factor at Hampden.
He added: “It would be brilliant [if I could win a medal for him]. It has been an up and down season and it was difficult. To have all that happening was difficult and I haven’t felt emotions like that before.
PROUD
“I know my dad is proud of me and what I have contributed this season. I am sure he will be phoning me on Friday night just to tell me that it’s just one more game and to give it everything I’ve got and that he is proud.
“Hopefully I can bring another medal home and get my hands on that trophy.
“He is brand new. He is back to work in the office a few days a week so it is like there is nothing wrong with him.
“He is like me, he’s a little energy bunny, so he needs to just calm down and relax a bit but he always has a smile on his face and he always tells me to enjoy everything I have and keep going.”
