Stokes wants Hibs goals for Trapattoni

EASTER Road striker Anthony Stokes today claimed Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni won't be able to ignore him if he keeps banging in the goals for Hibs.

The 21-year-old claimed 23 goals for his club last season as he helped clinch Hibs' place in the Europa League, a record which earned him a call-up for Ireland's friendlies against World Cup-bound Paraguay and Algeria.

But Stokes didn't feature in the 2-1 win against the South Americans earlier this week and Trapattoni has opted to stick with Robbie Keane and Kevin Doyle up-front for tonight's match against the Algerians.

Stokes, who has already won three caps for his country, insisted he had no problem with the Italian's decision, but believes another Easter Road goals rush next season will have Trapattoni sitting up and taking notice.

He said: "It has been good so far with Ireland. I got called up into the training squad to start with and then I was picked for the full squad for the two friendlies.

"I'm just delighted to be involved and it is great to be able to represent your country. Obviously I didn't play in the first friendly against Paraguay, but the way I look at it there are a lot of good players in the Irish team. We've got Doyler (Kevin Doyle) and Robbie Keane playing up front and I'm still only 21, so I just have to be patient and try to make an impact in training.

"I think I had a good season with Hibs and I just have to keep that up. If I do well for my club and keep being patient then hopefully the call-up will happen."

Meanwhile Stokes admitted he's already looking forward to returning to Easter Road saying: "Next season is going to be brilliant. With a new stand and a new pitch it is going to suit us down to the ground."