Former Celtic striker Anthony Stokes joins Blackburn Rovers

Blackburn Rovers have completed the signing of former Celtic striker Anthony Stokes on a three-year deal.

The 27-year-old, who joins on a free transfer, spent the latter part of last season on loan at Hibernian, scoring twice in May's Scottish Cup final victory against Rangers.

"I get a feeling for moves a lot of the time and there were different options available, but this time round this seemed like the right move for me," Stokes told Blackburn website.

"[Owen Coyle] had only positive things to say about me and I'm just looking forward to bedding in, getting a good pre-season under my belt and the start of the season.

"For myself, having a manager that believes in me gives me a lot of confidence and as a striker you need that, but it's going to be down to how I perform."

Stokes leaves Celtic Park having scored 77 goals in 192 games, and helped them win four titles and two Scottish Cups.