Footballer Anthony Stokes has avoided jail for headbutting an Elvis impersonator in Buck Whaley's nightclub in Dublin.

The Irish International and Blackburn striker offered Anthony Bradley 30-thousand euro for breaking his nose and two of his teeth in June 2013.

The 28 year-old father of two - who's awaiting to the birth of his third child - received a two year suspended sentence for the attack, with strict conditions.

Judge Patricia Ryan said she was taking into consideration " the seriousness of the offence and the personal circumstances" of Stokes.

He apologised through his barrister for what he said was "a nasty and cowardly thing to do".

Stokes - who's originally from Dublin - is now being sued by his victim in the High Court.