Manager Neil Lennon has hinted that Anthony Stokes could stay at Celtic

Anthony Stokes: Scored twice in the 6-2 victory over Dundee United

Neil Lennon has offered striker Anthony Stokes a Celtic lifeline after the Irish forward scored twice against Dundee United.

Stokes was disciplined by Celtic after several off-field incidents earlier this season, and it was thought that Lennon would allow the player to leave the club during the summer.

However, after the striker's performance in the 6-2 thrashing of the Terrors on Saturday, Lennon indicated that Stokes could yet earn a new deal at the club.

"It's up to Anthony. If he keeps playing like that it's not a difficult decision," Lennon said.

"I have always liked him and he's an important player.

"He's a goalscorer. There are aspects of his game he needs to improve on but if he puts his mind to it Anthony can be a very good player and he showed that today."

The goals were Stokes' second and third of the season in a campaign that has seen him only start three league matches.