Martin Boyle hopes to play a part of Hibs' pre-season and show he is ready for Europe.
The key attacker has been ruled out with a long-term injury but is back on the training field as he works hard to get himself back to full fitness and strength. While his team-mates have been off for a few weeks, the forward has been in working hard to make sure he is prepared for his big return as he admitted to 'feeling good'.
Boyle knows he has to remain patient and not try and get too excited but he hopes to return to action very soon. Hibs' Europa Conference League adventure begins in the second qualifying round with their two-legged tie taking place on July 27 and August 3 as they bid to join capital rivals Hearts in the third round.
READ MORE: Lee Johnson admits Hibs in 'really good shape' as Ben Kensell keen for lengthy run in Europe
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The Easter Road star said: “It’s hard to set targets and get too excited when the physio team is on your back.
“But I need to keep working hard and get myself up to full fitness and full strength.
“Hopefully I can play some part in the pre-season games and then show that I’m ready for Europe. It’s been good. I’ve not had much of a break as I’ve been in all summer.
“The rest of the lads had three weeks off but I came in throughout the summer to get myself prepared, so I am feeling good.
“I’m back in training and trying not to get carried away but it feels good. I’m quite a high-powered guy and I get excited when I’ve been out on the pitch.
“Obviously, when you get the buzz back it’s hard not to try to get more involved. But I am still doing bits and pieces on the side and I have to be patient.”
Lee Johnson has already added a number of new signings to his ranks while star striker Kevin Nisbet has moved on to England with Millwall.
Boyle is working back from the same injury as the Scotland international and seeing how well he has performed since his return gives the attacker inspiration. He knows his good pal is always at the other end of the phone for any advice as he hailed him as a 'fantastic player' and is in no doubt he will shine in England's second tier.
He continued: "We have made those few signings already, which is good for the club. Nizzy deserved his move and he’s done well coming back from the same operation I had and that has given me a little bit of inspiration.
"I know exactly what to do but if I have any issues then I know I can pick up the phone and speak to him to see what he did. He is a fantastic player, he scores goals and he is in the national team. I'm sure he will do well down there.”
