Boyle out until 2020 as Hibs are dealt blow before league opener

HIBERNIAN’S friendly defeat against Newcastle United was overshadowed by the news that winger Martin Boyle faces another lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a knee injury suffered against Elgin City last Friday. The 26-year-old will be forced to undergo surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus — just weeks after completing his rehabilitation from the same damage sustained on international duty with Australia in January. The club confirmed that Boyle will be absent for ‘the foreseeable future’. It is understood that he is likely to be out until 2020. ‘It’s a big blow for us,’ said Hibs head coach Paul Heckingbottom. ‘He is a player who was a big part of what we wanted to do and the style of play we want to implement. He is pure pace and athleticism.’ Asked whether the injury could force Hibs to return to the transfer market, he added: ‘We’ve lost a big part of what we wanted, so it’s something we need to look at.’ Boyle watched from the main stand at Easter Road as Stevie Mallan gave the hosts the lead after ten minutes, finding the bottom corner with a ferocious low drive from the edge of the box. Newcastle restored parity through their club-record £40million summer signing Joelinton, who volleyed home a Miguel Almiron cross for his maiden goal in black and white. Sean Longstaff, reportedly a target for Manchester United, then enhanced his burgeoning reputation by unleashing a right-footed piledriver to beat Ofir Marciano from 25 yards. Jamaal Lascelles completed the scoring after the break, heading home a superb delivery from Rolando Aarons. There was better news for the Hibs faithful when Ryan Porteous entered the fray as a late substitute, his first appearance for the club since suffering a knee injury in January.