Martin O’Neill has responded to the growing talk around Hibernian and claims from some supporters that they would rather see Celtic win than help Hearts in the title race this weekend.
Celtic head to Easter Road knowing the result could have a real impact at the top end of the table. Hearts are still firmly involved, and that has added another layer to a game that already carries weight.
In the days leading up to it, attention has turned to sections of the Hibs support, with some making it clear they would rather deny their rivals any advantage. It is not unusual in Scottish football, but the current title race has brought it into sharper focus.
On the pitch, nothing changes. Hibs have already beaten Celtic at Parkhead this season. At home, they look to close space quickly and break forward with pace, often using the wide areas to stretch teams. That puts pressure on Celtic to stay organised at the back and move the ball well through midfield.
O’Neill was asked about the situation and whether it could have any bearing on the game.
He said: (TCW), “Well, actually, I can maybe understand that, that maybe some Hibs fans wouldn’t want Hearts to win the league. But that won’t cross over to their team selection, to the coaching staff, absolutely not, and to the players.
“In fact, I think they would be more invigorated by the news of that there, so if I could call upon some Hibs fans to refrain from that, that would help!
“But, no, I get it, I understand that, I’m quite sure here it would be something similar for some Celtic fans who might not want their closest rivals to win.
“I don’t mean closest in that sense, the ones that are pretty well, not too far away.”
O’Neill’s point is clear. What is said in the stands does not carry into the dressing room. Players still go out to win, and coaches set up their teams the same way.
For Celtic, the challenge is dealing with a ground where games can turn quickly. Easter Road can become stretched, especially when possession is lost in midfield.
Hibs will try to disrupt the flow. Celtic will try to control it. That is where the game will be decided, not in anything said before kick-off.
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