Martin O'neill Says Hibs Views Won't Alter Celtic at Easter Road
martin o'neill said some Hibernian supporters may not want Hearts to win the Scottish Premiership, but he does not expect that to spill into Celtic's trip to Easter Road on Sunday. Celtic can draw level on points with the leaders if they beat Hibernian, and that leaves the title race tight before Hearts host Rangers on Monday.
O'Neill On Easter Road
O'Neill was blunt about the split loyalties around Edinburgh. "I can maybe understand that, that maybe some Hibs fans wouldn't want Hearts to win the league but that won't cross over, one to the team selection, two to the coaching staff," he said ahead of the match.
He also said: "I think they would be more invigorated by news of that. If I could could call upon some Hibs fans to refrain from that, that would help."
The line matters because Celtic go into the fixture three points behind Hearts. A win at Easter Road would pull them level before Rangers arrive at Tynecastle on Monday, where Celtic will be watching closely for a result that could shift the top of the table again.
Hearts And Rangers On Monday
O'Neill made clear he will have one eye on that game as well. "I'm glued to it, don't you worry, I'll be there," he said of Hearts against Rangers. "If you're asking who I'll be cheering on, I've no idea. Of course, I'll be watching because we have to play those teams."
Last weekend sharpened the picture. Celtic beat Falkirk at home on Saturday, Rangers lost at Ibrox to Motherwell on Sunday and dropped to third, and Hearts beat Hibernian at Easter Road.
Johnston's Return To Training
There was one boost for Celtic beyond the table chase. Alistair Johnston, who has missed most of the season with hamstring issues, came off the bench against Falkirk and had a full week's training.
"That's encouraging," O'Neill said. For a side trying to close a three-point gap while managing fitness across the squad, Johnston's return to regular work gives Celtic another option before a week that could reshape the title race.
