Lennon stoked with Anthony's performance

Neil Lennon revealed how he threw down to the gauntlet to Anthony Stokes to prove he can offer more for Celtic.

And the Hoops boss believes the striker rose to the challenge with a starring role in Sunday's Scottish Communities League Cup last-four win over Falkirk.

Stokes was on target twice in the 3-1 victory as Celtic secured a meeting with Kilmarnock in the final, but Lennon was impressed by more than just the goals.

He said: "I had a chat with him on Friday and told him I was pleased with his goal return but his play in general needs to smarten up a bit and I got all of that from him.

"He always gives himself a chance in games, he has that natural instinct for scoring. But to play here consistently you need more than chipping in with a goal here and there.

"I want him to be a good team player and I thought he was excellent. I was delighted with his contribution."