Celtic and Hibs in gentleman’s agreement over Stokes

Anthony Stokes kicked off his loan move to Hibernian with a goal at the weekend but will play no part in their Cup run should they meet Celtic in the final.

The 27-year-old Irishman joined the Edinburgh-based club for the remainder of the season after being frozen out of Ronny Deila’s squad.

Stokes made just two appearances all season in the Hoops jersey, the last coming against Dundee United at the end of August.

And a part of a gentleman’s agreement as reported by the Glasgow Evening Times, he will play no part in the Scottish League Cup final if Celtic meet Hibernian in the final.

Before that however, the Hoops will need to overcome Ross County this Sunday at Hampden Park in order to reach the final.

Deila is hoping to get one step closer to part one of three challenges he faces this season as he look to achieve a domestic treble.

Achieving such a feat would make him only the third manager to do so and the first since the 2000/01 season, when Martin O’Neill won it in his first season.

Entering the final week of the transfer window, Celtic are still pursuing a number of targets but their interest in Ljuban Crepulja has ended, while they have turned their attention to youngster Patrick Roberts.

The 18-year-old winger was signed by Manchester City last summer for a fee of £12 million from Fulham but has made just three first-team appearances and wants to go on loan to gain more experience.