With the first trophy of the season sitting in the Celtic boardroom Anthony Stokes has revealed the secrets of Ronny Deila’s high pressure style of football.
Stokes was outstanding in Celtic’s 2-0 win over Dundee United and is the most obvious example of how Deila has reshaped the team.
After four season’s playing as a striker the Irishman has had his game reshaped to develop productive a partnership with Emilio Izaguirre down the left flank.
Stokes’ Celtic days have been written off more than once but the former Hibs striker is delighted to be involved in a side closing in on the treble.
“The gaffer came in and changed a lot of things, he has brought in a real work-ethic,” the 26-year-old explained.
“He’s relentless. We break things down, work them into the ground then let our football take over. He has been brilliant.
“We’re improving – that has been a gradual thing. I don’t think it’s a question of us buying into it now because everyone did buy into it.
“You have to play the way the gaffer wants and work at the ?intensity he demands if you are to get into his team.
“We’re seeing the benefits of it now. We’re in a great position for the Treble but need to maintain the level of performances.”
Two wins over Dundee United in the Scottish Cup and SPFL this week will put a marker down on the treble but from past experience Stokes won’t be taking anything for granted.
“I’ve been here for five years and had two or three opportunities where we could have done the Treble but for one reason or another it hasn’t happened,” he added.
“It’s a very difficult thing to do but we’re in a good position, we’ve given ourselves a great chance this year and it’s down to us. Winning the Treble is the plan. We want to win every tournament.”
