Laughing Boyle Admits New Rule Has Cost Him ‘Quite a Bit’ Already

David Gray has implemented a fine system for players who forget to address him as “boss” or “gaffer,” according to his close friend Martin Boyle. The winger shared that these new rules have already cost him a significant amount of money.

“I still find it hard to call him gaffer,” confessed Boyle with a grin. “I consider him a really good friend. When I spoke to him after he got the job, I asked what I should call him—Dave or gaffer? Since then, a fine sheet was introduced: if you call him Dave or mate, you get fined a tenner!

“I’ve paid out quite a bit in the last month! The fine system is in place, and his demands are clear. We’re all listening and striving in the direction he wants to go—and hopefully, we can keep doing that.”

Gray’s long history at Hibs provides him with a unique perspective on his managerial role. As a Scottish Cup-winning captain and a coach who served four stints as interim manager before his summer promotion, the 36-year-old commands respect in the dressing room.

“He’s been through it all, he’s been through what I’ve been through, and we’ve been here pretty much the same time,” said Boyle. “He’s taken that step, which is perfect. The trust he has in me and the trust I have in him—he is getting the best out of me, and I’m always grateful to him. He will be a great manager, I’ve no doubt about that.

“I’ve seen a lot of managers, and with the gaffer now, I think it’s the standards, what it means to play for this club. He’s been here a long time; he was the captain. I played with him. He’s very demanding, he’s driven, and very respected around here.

“He’s got a game plan, and he likes his wingers out on the touchline. He likes to attack and have players staying high up the field. Everyone’s definitely striving in the same direction that he wants to go.”