Hoops secure Stokes on deal

Celtic attacker Anthony Stokes is aiming to improve further after casting aside all uncertainty over his future by signing a new three- year contract.

Stokes has committed himself to the club until the summer of 2016 after returning from a lengthy ankle injury l ay- off this year in emphatic fashion.

The 25-year-old was man of the match in Celtic’s 3-0 Scottish Cup final victory over Hibernian in May and his improved all-round play has seen him become Celtic’s key centre forward following the departure of Gary Hooper to Norwich.

Stokes has scored five times this season and created the goal that sent Celtic into the Champions League group stages when his quick feet and composure allowed him to set up James Forrest to hit an injury- time strike against Shakhter Karagandy.

Manager Neil Lennon wanted to secure Stokes’ future after he hinted he might speak to other clubs in January but the forward was pleased to reach an agreement with the club.

Stokes said: “I’m delighted and I’m just looking forward to the next few seasons. I’m just glad to get it out of the way and I can concentrate on my football.

“I’ ve been happy enough with the way it’s gone for me. I’d have likedafewmoregoalsby now but that’ll come.

“I’m enjoying my football and I’m hoping this just helps me kick on.”

“It’s been great to be involved in Europe after being injured last season. It washardtowatch the lads doing well and not have any input, so I’m delighted so far with this season.”

Anthony Stokes: Pleased to sign