Nick Montgomery rejects Celtic 'free hit' as Hibs boss delivers bullish financial gulf verdict

Nick Montgomery believes his Hibs side will learn from their Rangers loss last weekend - and not bow down to Celtic at the weekend in the process.

The Hoops travel to the capital for the second time in a week on Saturday afternoon after successfully dismantling Hearts last week, and with their only dropped points of the season coming at home to St Johnstone in August, Montgomery is well aware the Hoops will be planning to continue their hot-streak in a bid to keep Rangers at arm's length before they feature on Sunday against the Jambos.

But it won't be an easy challenge at Easter Road. Montgomery only suffered his first loss in six games last weekend as Hibs were drubbed 4-0 on Philippe Clement's Ibrox debut, and in front of a home crowd their task could become that little bit easier. And the Englishman has stated that money doesn't buy you games in a warning to Brendan Rodgers and co after claims of financial disparity.

Montgomery said: "The league table shows you they are the best team in the league right now. They are a fantastic team, Brendan has done a fantastic job with them since taking over, but it's always about us.

"Obviously, we give full respect to the opposition and need to defend better as a team.

"I don't think there is ever a free hit. It's 11v11 and money has never won a game of football, but what it does provide you with is a big squad and a lot of quality.

"As an opposition, you need to concentrate and be switched on at every moment."