Stokes avoids ban for clash with Nguemo

HIBERNIAN striker Anthony Stokes has escaped a ban despite being found guilty of a Scottish Football Association charge over his challenge on Celtic midfielder Landry Nguemo.

Stokes has effectively been handed a yellow card for the late tackle during Hibernian's 3-2 Clydesdale Bank Premier League defeat at Parkhead on 17 April.

The challenge was missed by referee Stephen Finnie but sparked an angry reaction from some of Nguemo's team-mates.

The incident was referred to the SFA's disciplinary committee by their TV review panel and Stokes was charged with "misconduct of a significantly serious nature". But the 21-year-old argued his case in person at a Hampden hearing and saw the offence reduced to "unsporting behaviour of a reckless and dangerous nature".

The Republic of Ireland striker had three points added to his disciplinary record to take his tally to 12, thus avoiding a suspension for the start of next season.

Meanwhile, Carlisle United defender Richard Keogh has been linked with a summer move to Easter Road. The 23-year-old former Bristol City stopper has failed to agree new terms at Brunton Park and has reportedly been watched already by Hibs.