Stokes' father wants son to leave Celtic

Anthony Stokes wants to leave Celtic after being kept on the bench on Sunday’s Co-operative Insurance Cup final defeat by Rangers at Hampden, according to his father.

The Republic of Ireland player, who has scored 17 goals for the Hoops this season, was reportedly furious that he was not stripped for action even though the Parkhead side were losing 2-1 and desperate for a goal.

Stokes’ dad John, who acts as his agent, wants his son to slap in a transfer request today.

“It is crazy that Anthony didn’t play when he is Celtic’s top scorer,” he told the Scottish Sun.

“Neil Lennon has to understand that.

“He isn’t going to be at Celtic if he doesn’t play against Rangers or in the big games.

“My advice to him is to move from Celtic and put in a transfer request immediately.

“I think he will because he has told me he wants out.

“What is the point of being a Celtic player if you don’t play in games like that? For whatever reason Lennon just doesn’t fancy him.

“They obviously don’t trust him to play against Rangers.

“He was absolutely furious on the bench. I know that he is furious that Lennon doesn’t have the confidence in him.”