Hibernian sign Stokes on loan

Scottish Championship side Hibernian have signed Anthony Stokes on loan from Celtic until the end of the season, as confirmed by the Daily Mail.

Both clubs will officially confirm the transfer later today and will give Stokes the chance to show Ronny Deila what he’s missing.

The 27-year-old striker has fallen out of favour under Deila and has made just two appearances this season, his last coming against Dundee United in August.

There was interest from Dundee United, who also agreed a deal with Celtic, but it is thought Stokes preferred a move to his former club.

After tweeting his discontent at being sat on the Celtic bench last month against Inverness, the Irishman was suspended for two weeks from the club’s training ground.

Deila insisted however it wasn’t just one incident that resulted in the suspension, and the decision resulted from previous incidents and the club had to take a stand.

Despite this, some fans have voiced their displeasure at Stokes’ exclusion from the team while other strikers such as Nadir Ciftci and Carlton Cole line-up in the Hoops jersey.

Under Neil Lennon Stokes and Gary Hooper formed a formidable partnership as the Irish international went on to scored 20 goals in two different seasons under the former Celtic player.

Since Deila’s arrival, Stokes has been forced to operate on the left wing which has hindered his goal scoring chances.

He has only managed to score right goals in 40 appearances under the Norwegian, a sure sign the two haven’t quite seen eye-to-eye.

Former Celtic player Alan Stubbs will he hoping to reignite his form to help his side win the Championship and return to the top flight of Scottish football.