(Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images)
Hibs have confirmed the exit of Australian international Martin Boyle to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Faisaly – with Easter Road chief executive Ben Kensell paying tribute to Boyler after seven years in the capital.
The Socceroo made 265 appearances, scoring 65 goals, following his initial move on loan from Dundee in January 2015 and has left the Hibees for an “undisclosed seven-figure fee”.
Kensell confirmed that the popular Australian was offered a “life-changing” move by Al-Faisaly as he wished him the best with his new side, saying: “We’d like to begin by thanking Martin Boyle for everything he’s done for Hibernian FC over the last seven years. He created some really special memories with us and gave everything for the supporters.
“Letting Martin go was a difficult decision to make as he’s an important player for us, but equally when a player is presented with a life-changing option in-front of him and makes it clear that it’s an option he’d like to take, then we have to listen.
“Discussion have been on-going for a long period with Martin, and he understood our stance. We took a firm, but fair approach and he conducted himself incredibly well during what’s been a difficult period for him, and we thank him for that.
“We wish him all the best for the future, and he will always be welcome back at Hibernian FC.”
Boyle missed last night’s 1-0 win over Cove Rangers in the Scottish Cup and made his final appearance for Hibs in the 2-0 defeat by Celtic on Monday night in the Scottish Premiership.
Harmah-based Al-Faisaly are currently 14th in the 16-team Saudi Pro League, having finished ninth last season.
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