Neil Lennon revealed Anthony Stokes barged his way to the top of the queue for a new contract with his impressive performance in Celtic's 5-0 win over Hibernian at Easter Road which took the Hoops 17 points clear of administration-hit Rangers at the top of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League.
Stokes has been in and out of the team under Lennon and was fired up in his latest return from a spell on the bench at the expense of Georgios Samaras, heading the visitors into the lead from a Charlie Mulgrew corner with 14 minutes on the clock.
"I will review all the contracts at the end of the season but if we get over the line with the championship, he will be at the front of the queue because his contribution has been fantastic," said Lennon of Stokes.
The Parkhead men went from strength to strength and a Gary Hooper brace and goals from Mulgrew and substitute Ki Sung-yueng, on for Victor Wanyama, extended the Parkhead side's winning domestic run to 18 games.
The Celtic boss highlighted the performance of the former Hibs striker, saying: "That's Anthony's best game under me since we brought him in and I couldn't be more pleased with him.
"He has been a bit frustrated at being in and out of the team at times and I can understand that - the kid just wants to play - but he has set a standard, that's for sure."
Stokes admitted Lennon had been hard on him at times for his own good and looked forward to the prospect of a new contract. "Yes of course," said the Irishman. "Listen, I have never been happier at a club.
"I have another season after this and then an option and I can't see myself playing for anyone else for a long time, if the offer is on the table.
"I am obviously delighted that I scored and got back in the team and I was happy with my contribution.
"I want to play every game but I know it's not going to be like that. I have to take my chances when I am back in the team like I did."
Source: PA
