Done deal: Celtic complete striker transfer as paperwork finalised

Founder & Managing Director AUTHORITY Former chief correspondent at Evening Standard, Goal and Press Association with nearly three decades in national, regional and digital news and sports journalism. Wayne directs the network’s news strategy and high-level operations. FOCUS Editorial direction for the 11-site network and newsroom management. THE BRIEF Wayne oversees the network’s editorial standards across the network. He provides the final sign-off on all headline scoops, ensuring content across all platforms meets the standards required for a high-velocity newsroom.

Published on:

19 Jan 2016, 1:03 pm

By Alex Stevens

Celtic striker Anthony Stokes has joined former club Hibernian on loan until the end of the season, it was announced on Tuesday.

The Scottish Championship club say the deal is subject to confirmation of Stokes' registration by the Scottish FA.

Stokes, 27, turned down the chance to play in England as well as offers from Dundee United and Inverness CT.

"Anthony is a fantastic footballer and will really strengthen the squad," Hibernian manager Alan Stubbs told the club's website. "We have a number of options in attack and real competition for places, which is what every manager wants.

"We are excited about Anthony coming here and I think he will prove to be a real asset."

The Republic of Ireland international left Hibs for Celtic in 2010 and has scored 76 goals in 196 matches for Celtic as well as supplying 66 assists.

The Arsenal academy graduate also played for the Gunners, Falkirk, Sunderland, Sheffield United and Crystal Palace, scoring 121 goals in his professional career.

Hibs are third in the Scottish Championship, five points behind leaders Rangers and level with second-place Falkirk.

Celtic had indicated that they would prefer Stokes to join a top-flight club.

Celtic manager Ronny Deila is targeting Premier League talent in the January window

Falling out: Deila has sanctioned Stokes' exit on loan

Stokes has fallen out of favour at Celtic under manager Ronny Deila and made his last appearance this season in August.

The player was suspended by Celtic in December after he complained on Twitter about his lack of playing time.

"It will be a fantastic piece of business for the football club and for Anthony," Stubbs told BBC Radio Scotland's Sportsound programme on Monday.

"He's a very, very talented footballer. Yes, he's had one or two issues, but I'm prepared to look over that. The reason we're bringing him to the football club is because of his ability on the pitch.

"I don't think it is a gamble whatsoever. I can't wait to work with him, to be honest.

"I like personalities. I like people who are different and I'm sure he's going to enjoy working with me. I think it could be very good."

Celtic

Anthony Stokes

Hibernian