BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
Alan Stubbs is ready to make his move for Anthony Stokes after it was confirmed that the striker will leave Celtic at the end of his current deal.
Stubbs, who quit Hibernian for Rotherham United last week, enjoyed a fruitful relationship with the Irishman in the second half of last season, with Stokes netting nine goals during a loan spell from the Hoops.
The highlight of his second stint at Easter Road came with a man of the match display in the Scottish Cup final, with his brace against Rangers helping Hibs end 114 years of hurt with a 3-2 triumph.
And Stubbs is eager to bolster his attacking options at the New York Stadium by snapping up Stokes.
However, he is ready for a battle, with the former Celtic and Everton defender telling the Shieffield Star that he expects a host of clubs to be clamouring for Stokes’ signature.
Stubbs said: “I wouldn’t rule out an interest in Anthony Stokes. But we wouldn’t be on our own. There will be a number of clubs interested him, particularly if it’s a free transfer.
“I know him from his time at Hibs and at Celtic. Obviously, it doesn’t hurt that I have a good relationship with him already. I like to have a good relationship with all my players.
“I talk to them before and after training. I have had a lot of players from Hibs ring or text me to wish me well since I moved to Rotherham, which is indicative of that.”
Stokes made 192 appearances for Celtic during six years at Parkhead, scoring 77 goals.
