The more that they write him off the more he enjoys it.
Tynecastle is without doubt one of his favourite grounds with Scott Brown almost adding another goal to his collection last night with a first half half volley.
Bobby Zlamal turned that effort away, and pulled off an amazing double save late in the first half but you have to keep going for 90 minutes and beyond to get the better of the Celtic skipper.
Throughout the second half Brown dominated the match showing a freshness of fitness and ideas to some opponents ten years younger. Last season wonder-kid Harry Cochrane had plenty to say about his jousts with the eight times title winner.
Into stoppage time Brown picked out a brilliant pass into the box, Odsonne Edouard timed his run perfectly and the ball was buried into the back of the net.
After the final whistle the Celtic skipper did a round of interviews, there wasn’t a word out of place as he was probed on the departure of Brendan Rodgers. On Saturday he’ll be back in Edinburgh to a less hostile reception at Easter Road but there will be no less intensity in his performance.