Neil Lennon eager for Anthony Stokes stay

Celtic manager Neil Lennon has revealed that he is eager to tie striker Anthony Stokes down to a new deal.

The 24-year-old Irishman, who is out of contract, recently rejected an offer from the club to extend his stay.

"He rejected our initial offer but I would imagine we'll come again and get him done," Lennon told the Daily Mail.

"I'd like him to stay and I don't really think he wants to go, so we'll speak to his agent over the next week or so.

"It's not that it's taken longer than I thought. He has to think about his own future and is well within his rights to turn down the offer."

Stokes scored seven goals in 23 games for Celtic last season.