Hibernian make offer to Anthony Stokes following release by Blackburn

Neil Lennon has confirmed Hibernian have made an offer to striker Anthony Stokes following his release by Blackburn on Friday.

The striker joined Rovers on a three-year deal last summer following his departure from Scottish champions Celtic, where he scored 77 goals from 192 appearances.

The League One side announced the 28-year-old's exit on Friday after reaching an agreement with Stokes to end his stay at Rovers.

The Republic of Ireland international featured 12 times and netted three goals during his time at Ewood Park.

Stokes is no stranger to Hibernian fans having scored 22 times for Hibs in 40 appearances during the 2009/10 season.

He also finished the 2015/16 campaign on loan at Hibs, scoring twice in their historic 3-2 Scottish Cup final victory over Rangers, and Lennon wants to bring him back for a third spell at Easter Road.

"Well, I think it is fair to say we are in talks with Anthony. We have made him a really good offer, a really strong offer, so the ball is in the court of Anthony now and his agent," Lennon told BT Sport.

"We will wait and see. We just have to hope that he thinks Hibs is the next stage in his career again."

Meanwhile, Rovers announced 19-year-old academy graduate Ryan Nyambe has signed a new three-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months.

The defender, who joined the club at the age of 14, cemented his place in the senior squad last season to make 28 appearances, starting every game under manager Tony Mowbray.

"I'm very pleased to sign this new contract," said Nyambe. "I can't wait for the new season to start and to learn more."