BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport
NEIL LENNON admits he has a selection headache ahead of Hibernian’s mouth-watering trip to face Rangers after heaping praise on returning hero Anthony Stokes.
Making his first start since signing on for a third stint at Easter Road, the Irishman bagged a brace and teed up Simon Murray with a classy reverse pass in their 5-0 win over Ayr United.
Efe Ambrose and Deivydas Matulevicius completed the rout, however it was Stokes who stole the show with a man of the match display.
He will now be firmly in contention for the first meeting between Hibs and Rangers since the capital club ended their Scottish Cup hoodoo with a 3-2 win in May 2016.
“Stokes showed some great touches considering that was his first run out in a long time,” said Lennon. “To get two goals and assist was terrific. There was real quality to his touches and play in general.
“It was great that he got 90 minutes and got his goals – that is what he is here for. We’re playing him in his right position and we think he’ll score goals.
“There are some tough calls for Saturday now, but that is what you want. I don’t have a clear idea who I’m going to play against Rangers on Saturday.”
Lennon, however, knows a tougher task awaits the Hibees in Govan – where the former Celtic captain and manager will be assured a hostile welcome.
“I haven’t given it too much thought just yet,” he smiled. “I haven’t been at Ibrox for a few years, so I’m looking forward to it very much.”
