Republic of Ireland international Anthony Stokes has sealed a move back to the club where he has enjoyed his best spells as a player, Scottish Premiership side Hibernian.
The Dubliner has been a free agent since June when he mutually agreed to terminate his contract with English League One side Blackburn Rovers, where he signed a three-year deal last year.
Stokes had spells with Hibs in the 2009/10 season when he scored 24 goals in 43 games and in 2016 on loan, scoring 6 goals in 14 Championship matches.
He expressed delight to hibernianfc.co.uk after signing a two-year contract today.
"I am delighted to be coming back to Hibernian. The club has a big place in my heart and it’s where I’ve played some of my best football.
"It’s an environment that can get the best out of me and I am looking forward to getting back amongst the squad and scoring goals again."
— Hibernian FC (@HibsOfficial) August 2, 2017
The 29-year-old striker is loved at Easter Road, thanks mainly to his brace that helped to defeat Rangers in the 2016 Scottish Cup Final, ending a 114-year wait for the club to win the trophy.
"The scenes of celebration following the cup win will live long in my memory", recalled Stokes, "and the only disappointment from my last spell was that we didn’t get promotion.
"The boys did brilliantly last season and now I’ll be looking to help us push on back in the Premiership."
Hibs boss Neil Lennon feels Stokes is another worthy addition to his squad.
"Anthony’s a quality player that we all know well, and will be a massive addition to our strike force.
"I’ve been really pleased with the work we’ve done over the summer – the squad is in good shape and we’ve made several strong additions.
"We now have competition in every area of the park and are ready for the start of the league campaign on Saturday."
