Former Hibs striker Colin Nish reckons Anthony Stokes can inspire Alan Stubbs’ side to the Championship title if the marksman returns to Easter Road on loan.
Head coach Stubbs is keen to recruit the Irishman from Celtic to bolster his side’s chances of pipping Rangers to the chequered flag in the second tier.
Nish was the 27-year-old’s strike partner at the Leith club when Stokes scored 23 goals in 42 appearances during the 2009/10 campaign before earning a move to Parkhead.
And the Hibs fan, who is now the player/manager of League One outfit Cowdenbeath, reckons the forward, who has only made two appearances for the Hoops this season, is capable of replicating that form.
Nish said: “It would be a great signing for Hibs if they manage to get it across the line, and one that would certainly be a signing to show some intent to go and get promotion.
“Everywhere he’s been he’s scored goals. Dropping down to the Championship, it would be a real catch for Hibs at this point of the season.
“He was a complete and utter goal scorer when I played with him, he had very good movement and was an all round good player.
“You could see why Celtic wanted to sign him when they did and if he went back to Hibs hopefully he could do the same.
“Alan knows exactly what he’s doing and out of all the strikers he’s got, I don’t really think there is one that I would regard as an out-and-out striker.
“Even Jason Cummings could play off the front but Stokes is an out and out striker and he guarantees you goals.”
Nish reckons the guidance of then manager John Hughes was part of the reason that Stokes enjoyed such a successful season at Hibs.
Hughes is also desperate to be reunited with Stokes at Inverness but Nish hopes his old team-mate chooses Leith.
Nish added: “I think Yogi had a massive influence on him if I’m being honest.
“He had him at Falkirk before. Yogi knew how to deal with him and get the best out of him.
“Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think Stokesy is a problem or someone that needed more attention.
“John Hughes is very good at that, that’s probably one of his main strengths, his man-management.
“That does not mean to say Alan Stubbs can’t do the same.
“Jason Cummings has had some problems but he’s managed to get the best out of him.”
